Alternanthera reineckii: var. rosaefolia

Alternanthera reineckii

Alternanthera reineckii: var. rosaefolia, commonly known as the Red Cardinal Plant, is a striking aquatic plant favored by aquascapers for its vibrant pinkish-red foliage. This stunning perennial, which originates from South America, features broad, oval leaves that can grow up to 10 cm long. The color intensity can vary from a subtle pink to a deep magenta, particularly when exposed to adequate light and nutrients. This plant serves as an exceptional focal point in aquascapes, providing contrast against lush green backgrounds and enhancing the overall aesthetic of underwater landscapes.

Care Guide

Maintaining Alternanthera reineckii: var. rosaefolia requires attention to several growth conditions to ensure its health and vibrant coloration:

1. Lighting: The plant thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions. Ideally, provide 2 to 3 watts per liter of light, with a photoperiod of 10 to 12 hours daily. High lighting can promote more intense coloration and compact growth.

2. Water Conditions: A temperature range of 22-28°C (72-82°F) is optimal. The plant prefers a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5 and soft to moderately hard water (dGH of 4-12).

3. Pruning: Regular pruning is necessary to maintain a bushy appearance. Trim the top of the stems to encourage lateral growth and prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.

4. Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate will support a healthy root system. A thickness of 5-10 cm is recommended.

Nutrient Requirements

Successful cultivation of Alternanthera reineckii: var. rosaefolia requires careful management of essential nutrients and environmental factors:

• Light: As previously noted, the plant thrives in moderate to high light conditions, which is crucial for promoting reddish hues.

• CO2: Supplementation with CO2 is highly beneficial and can enhance both growth and coloration. Aim for around 20-30 mg/L of CO2 to facilitate optimal photosynthesis.

• Fertilization: Weekly dosing of a complete liquid fertilizer enriched with micro and macronutrients will bolster growth. Additionally, root tabs can provide essential nutrients directly to the substrate.

Natural Biomes

This stunning plant species is native to several rich biomes, including:

• The Amazon Basin
• The Rio Negro
• The Orinoco

These areas are characterized by their lush vegetation and diverse aquatic ecosystems, offering insights into optimal cultivation methods.

Livestock Compatibility

Alternanthera reineckii: var. rosaefolia pairs well with a variety of livestock in the aquarium. Suitable companions include:

• Tetras: Species such as Neon Tetras and Cardinal Tetras add vivid color and thrive in planted environments.
• Corydoras: These bottom-dwelling fish help keep the substrate clean and benefit from the cover provided by the plant.
• Shrimp: Cherry Shrimp and Amano Shrimp will flourish, grazing on algae and detritus while adding movement to the aquascape.

By choosing compatible species, aquarists can create harmonious and vibrant aquatic environments that highlight the beauty of Alternanthera reineckii: var. rosaefolia.