Salvinia Natans

Description

Salvinia Natans, commonly known as floating fern, is a delicate and small aquatic plant that can be found in calm freshwater bodies such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It is highly prized among aquarium enthusiasts who use it as a decorative plant in their tanks. Due to its floating nature, it provides excellent cover for fish and other aquatic creatures. It is a popular plant for use in water gardens, aquariums, and ponds due to its ease of care and beautiful appearance.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Salvinia Natans has small, bright green oval leaves that are covered in tiny hairs causing it to have a velvety texture. The leaves are arranged in pairs and measure around 1 cm in length. The plant is a floating plant that doesn’t have roots but rather has small, hair-like structures called root hairs that allow it to absorb nutrients from the water. It reproduces through spores, which it produces on the undersides of its leaves.

Care Guide

Salvinia Natans is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It requires a moderate amount of light, and it should be kept in water with a temperature range of 60-80°F. It is a floating plant, so it doesn’t require any soil, but it does need to be anchored down in the aquarium, pond, or water garden using a weight or tied to a rock or other anchor. The plant needs to be fertilized regularly to maintain healthy growth, and it should be pruned regularly to prevent it from overgrowing.

Salvinia Natans is a hardy plant that can adapt to a wide range of conditions, and it can thrive in hard water. It can be grown in various types of aquariums, including freshwater, brackish, and saltwater aquariums. It can also be grown in ponds and water gardens, where it provides excellent cover for fish and other aquatic creatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Salvinia Natans is a relatively hardy plant that is not susceptible to many diseases or pests. However, it can be affected by algae growth, which can be controlled by ensuring the water quality is optimal and by providing adequate lighting. Additionally, snails, fish, and other aquatic creatures can eat the plant, causing damage or even death. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the plant is not overstocked with fish or other creatures that may feed on it.

Habitat

Salvinia Natans is native to Central and South America, where it can be found in calm freshwater bodies such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It is a versatile plant that can grow in various conditions, including still, slow-moving, and even stagnant water. It can also grow in brackish water, making it adaptable to a wide range of environments.

Questions and Answers

Q: Can Salvinia Natans be grown in a saltwater aquarium?
A: Yes, Salvinia Natans can be grown in a saltwater aquarium.

Q: Does Salvinia Natans require CO2 injection?
A: No, Salvinia Natans does not require CO2 injection but can benefit from it.

Q: Can Salvinia Natans be used as a food source for fish?
A: Yes, Salvinia Natans can be used as a food source for fish, but it is not recommended as the plant is more valuable as an ornamental plant.

Q: How fast does Salvinia Natans grow?
A: Salvinia Natans grows relatively quickly and can double in size in just a few weeks.

Related Plants

• Salvinia auriculata
• Salvinia cucullata
• Salvinia herzogii
• Salvinia molesta

References

• Salvinia natans. (n.d.). Retrieved August 17, 2021, from https://www.aquariumcarebasics.com/plant-care/salvinia-natans/
• Salvinia natans. (n.d.). Retrieved August 17, 2021, from https://www.flowgrow.de/db/wasserpflanzen/salvinia-natans
• Salvinia natans. (n.d.). Retrieved August 17, 2021, from https://www.fishkeepingworld.com/salvinia-natans/
• Salvinia natans. (n.d.). Retrieved August 17, 2021, from https://www.aquariumcoop.com/blogs/aquarium/salvinia-natans