Rotala Macandra Mini Type IV (large pot)

Rotala Macandra Mini Type IV is a vibrant and delicate aquatic plant highly favored in planted aquariums, especially for aquascaping. It is a smaller variant of the standard Rotala macrandra, known for its rich red, pink, and orange hues under the right conditions.

Key Features:

• Size: Being a “Mini” variety, it grows more compact compared to the typical Rotala macrandra, making it ideal for smaller tanks or as a foreground or midground plant.
• Color: Its striking coloration varies from deep reds to oranges, depending on lighting, CO2 levels, and nutrient availability.
• Growth: It has fine, narrow leaves that grow densely along its stems, creating a bushy appearance. High-intensity lighting and nutrient-rich environments are essential for maintaining its compact form and vivid colors.
• Care Level: This plant is considered moderately difficult to care for, as it requires stable water parameters, high CO2 injection, and proper fertilization (especially iron and micronutrients) to thrive.

Growth Conditions:

• Lighting: High light intensity is crucial for promoting vibrant colors.
• CO2: Adequate CO2 supplementation is required to support healthy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy or losing color.
• Water Parameters: Soft, slightly acidic to neutral water (pH 6.0–7.5) is ideal, along with temperatures between 22-28°C (72-82°F).

Use in Aquascaping:

The compact growth of Rotala Macandra Mini Type IV makes it a popular choice for creating dense, colorful patches in aquascapes, often used in Dutch-style or nature aquariums. Its small size also makes it suitable for nano aquariums.

Propagation:

It propagates by cutting the stems and replanting them, allowing for easy spreading in the tank. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth.

Overall, Rotala Macandra Mini Type IV adds a vibrant splash of color and texture to any aquascape, but it does require dedication to maintain its stunning appearance.