Amazon Frogbit
Limnobium laevigatum
Hydrocharitaceae
About
Amazon frogbit is a fast-growing South American floating plant with round, bright-green leaves that rest on the surface and long feathery roots that trail into the water below. Hardy and undemanding, it thrives in low light without CO2, quickly carpets the surface, and pulls large amounts of nitrate and phosphate from the water while casting shade and offering cover for shy fish and shrimp fry.
Care
Simply float it on a calm surface with low to moderate light and no CO2, thin it regularly so it does not block all light, and leave an air gap under the lid so the leaf tops stay dry. Dislikes strong surface agitation and condensation on the leaves.
Diet
A vigorous water-column feeder that draws nitrate, phosphate and iron through its roots and leaves, making it an excellent natural nutrient exporter; grows well on fish waste alone but responds to light liquid fertiliser.
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Frequently asked questions
- What water parameters does a Amazon Frogbit need?
- Amazon Frogbit does best at 18–28 °C (64.4–82.4 °F), pH 5–8 and a general hardness of 2–15 °dGH.
- Where should Amazon Frogbit be placed in the aquarium?
- Amazon Frogbit works best floating at the surface and reaches around 5 cm.
- Is the Amazon Frogbit suitable for beginners?
- Yes — Amazon Frogbit is one of the easier species to keep and forgives typical first-tank mistakes, as long as the aquarium is cycled and maintained.