Hydatella Inconspicua
Contents
Description
Hydatella Inconspicua is a small aquatic plant that belongs to the family Hydrocharitaceae. It is also commonly known as the Australian water starwort. This plant is native to eastern Australia, and it is a popular choice for aquariums and water gardens. The stems of Hydatella Inconspicua are thin and branching, and the leaves are narrow and linear. The flowers of this plant are small and inconspicuous, and they are produced on long, slender stalks that emerge from the water’s surface.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Hydrocharitales |
| Family | Hydrocharitaceae |
| Genus | Hydatella |
Appearance
The Hydatella Inconspicua is a small plant that typically grows up to 20 cm in height. The stems are thin, branching, and green in color. The leaves are narrow and linear, and they are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The leaves are also green in color, and they are up to 1 cm long. The flowers of this plant are small and inconspicuous, and they are produced on long, slender stalks that emerge from the water’s surface. The flowers are usually green or yellowish in color, and they have three petals and three sepals.
Care Guide
Hydatella Inconspicua is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Hydatella Inconspicua is an aquatic plant, so it requires a constant supply of clean, freshwater. The water should be changed regularly to prevent the build-up of algae and other harmful substances.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be added to the water every few months to promote growth.
- Soil: Hydatella Inconspicua does not require soil, as it is an aquatic plant.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers bright, indirect light. It should be placed in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of light per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Hydatella Inconspicua is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hydatella Inconspicua is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common issues that may arise include:
- Algae: Algae can grow on the leaves and stems of this plant, which can inhibit growth and cause discoloration. Regular water changes and the addition of an algae inhibitor can help prevent this issue.
- Snails: Snails can eat the leaves and stems of this plant, causing damage and inhibiting growth. They can be removed manually or by using a snail trap.
Habitat
Hydatella Inconspicua is native to eastern Australia, where it can be found growing in streams, rivers, and other bodies of water. It prefers slow-moving or still water and can grow in both shallow and deep water. This plant is also commonly found in aquariums and water gardens around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hydatella Inconspicua be grown in a terrarium?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a terrarium as long as it is provided with a constant supply of clean, freshwater and bright, indirect light.
Q: How often should the water be changed for Hydatella Inconspicua?
A: The water should be changed every 1-2 weeks to prevent the build-up of harmful substances.
Q: Is Hydatella Inconspicua a good choice for a beginner aquarium hobbyist?
A: Yes, this plant is relatively easy to care for and is a good choice for beginner aquarium hobbyists.
Q: Does Hydatella Inconspicua require a filter in an aquarium?
A: No, this plant does not require a filter as it obtains nutrients directly from the water.
Related Plants
- Hydrilla verticillata
- Elodea canadensis
- Vallisneria americana
- Ceratophyllum demersum
References
- “Hydatella Inconspicua.” Aquatic Plant Central. Accessed May 19, 2021. https://www.aquaticplantcentral.com/forumapc/plantfinder/details.php?id=351.
- “Hydatella Inconspicua.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed May 19, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=316792.
- “Hydatella Inconspicua.” Tropica Aquarium Plants. Accessed May 19, 2021. https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/HydatellaInconspicua(050TC)/4472.
