Guppy Grass (2oz)

Guppy Grass (Najas guadalupensis), also known as Najas Grass, is a popular aquatic plant in the aquarium hobby. Its fast growth, easy care, and adaptability make it an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned aquarists alike. Guppy Grass provides excellent cover for fish, especially fry, and helps maintain water quality by absorbing excess nutrients.

Planting and Placement

Substrate: Guppy Grass can grow both rooted in the substrate or floating. It does not require a nutrient-rich substrate, making it highly versatile. If you choose to plant it, simply anchor the stems in the substrate. If floating, let the stems drift freely in the water.

Light Requirements: Guppy Grass thrives in low to moderate lighting. Aim for 1.5 to 3 watts per gallon or an equivalent LED light setup. While it can adapt to higher light levels, excessive lighting can encourage algae growth.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Guppy Grass prefers a temperature range between 64°F and 82°F, making it suitable for both tropical and temperate tanks.
• pH: It thrives in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline water, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (2 to 15 dGH) is ideal for Guppy Grass.

Maintenance

Pruning: Regular pruning is essential due to Guppy Grass's rapid growth. Trim back overgrown stems to prevent the plant from overshadowing other tank inhabitants. Pruning also helps maintain a neat appearance and encourages bushier growth.

Fertilization: Guppy Grass can thrive on nutrients from fish waste and organic matter in the tank. However, occasional supplementation with liquid fertilizers can promote lush growth. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer designed for aquatic plants, following the manufacturer's recommended dosage.

CO2 Requirements: Guppy Grass does not require additional CO2 injection and will grow well in low-tech setups. In high-tech tanks with CO2 supplementation, Guppy Grass can exhibit even faster growth.

Propagation

Guppy Grass propagates easily through stem cuttings. Simply cut a healthy stem section with several leaf nodes and either plant it in the substrate or let it float. New roots and shoots will develop from the nodes, quickly establishing new plants.