Alternanthera reineckii Tissue Culture
Alternanthera reineckii is a vibrant freshwater stem plant known for its striking red, purple, and pink hues. When provided as a tissue culture, this plant offers aquarists a clean, pest-free option for adding bold color and contrast to their aquascapes. Its easy adaptability and stunning appearance make it a popular choice for midground or background placement in planted tanks.
Key Features:
Appearance:
The plant showcases narrow, lance-shaped leaves with a variety of colors ranging from deep red to bright pink, depending on lighting and nutrient levels. Its compact, bushy growth pattern makes it ideal for adding dramatic color contrast to green plants.
Growth Type:
Grows vertically and can branch out when trimmed regularly, resulting in a dense, bushy look.
Light Requirement:
Medium to high light; intense lighting enhances the plant’s red coloration.
CO₂ Requirement:
CO₂ supplementation is recommended for optimal growth and vibrant color development but can also grow without CO₂ in low-tech setups, albeit with slower growth and less intense coloration.
Care Level:
Moderate; requires stable water parameters and regular trimming to maintain its shape and prevent leggy growth.
Tank Compatibility:
Suitable for freshwater community tanks, aquascapes, and nano tanks. Works well in Dutch-style or nature-style aquascapes where bold color contrast is desired.
Water Parameters:
pH 6.0-7.5 | Temperature 72-82°F (22-28°C)
Tissue Culture Advantages:
Pest-Free: Cultured in sterile conditions, ensuring no unwanted algae, snails, or pathogens.
Healthy Growth: Strong root systems and fresh, vibrant leaves make for an easy transition to submerged growth.
Ready for Planting: The tissue culture can be divided into small portions and planted individually for even coverage.
Planting Tips:
Rinse off the gel medium carefully under running water before planting.
Divide the plant into small clusters and plant them evenly in the desired midground or background area.
Provide consistent lighting and fertilization to promote healthy, colorful growth.
Alternanthera reineckii tissue culture is an excellent way to introduce striking red tones and a dynamic visual element to your aquascape. With proper care, it will grow into a stunning feature, creating depth and contrast in your aquarium’s layout.