Duckweed (Lemna minor) – The Ultimate Floating Plant for Natural Aquarium Balance
Name: Duckweed (Lemna minor) - Live Floating Plants
Difficulty Level: Very Easy
Light Requirements: Low to High
Growth Rate: Extremely Fast
Placement: Surface Floating
CO2: Not Required
(Shipped in plastic wrappings)
Why Choose Duckweed for Your Aquarium?
✔ Natural Water Purifier – Absorbs excess nitrates and phosphates
✔ Provides Shade – Helps reduce algae by limiting light penetration
✔ Oxygenates Water – Improves overall tank health
✔ Fish & Shrimp Food – Many species love to nibble on it
✔ Super Easy to Grow – Thrives in almost any conditions
Ideal For:
Natural-looking tanks
Breeding setups (provides cover for fry)
Outdoor ponds
Turtle and goldfish tanks (as supplemental food)
Plant Description:
Duckweed is the world's smallest flowering plant, forming a bright green carpet on your water's surface. Each plant consists of 1-3 small oval leaves (fronds) with tiny roots hanging below.
Key Features:
Leaf Size: 1/16" to 1/8" (2-5mm)
Root Length: 1/4" to 1/2" (5-15mm)
Growth Pattern: Forms dense mats that double every 2-3 days
Care & Maintenance Guide
🌿 Getting Started
Rinse gently before adding to your tank
Spread evenly across water surface
Watch it grow - will cover surface quickly!
💡 Optimal Growing Conditions
Factor Requirement
Light Any (from low to high)
Temperature 50-86°F (10-30°C)
pH 5.0-7.5
Nutrients Thrives in nutrient-rich water
⚠️ Important Notes:
Grows extremely fast - remove excess weekly
Can block light - leave some open areas
Use a feeding ring to keep areas clear for fish feeding
Benefits for Your Aquarium
✅ Natural Filtration: Removes harmful waste compounds
✅ Oxygen Production: Boosts dissolved oxygen levels
✅ Stress Reduction: Provides security for shy fish
✅ Food Source: Loved by goldfish, tilapia, and shrimp
Controlling Duckweed Growth
While beneficial, duckweed can grow too well. Here's how to manage it:
Weekly Harvesting: Scoop out excess with a fine net
Surface Skimmer: Helps control spread
Partial Water Changes: Reduces nutrient levels
Pro Tip: Use excess duckweed as compost or chicken feed!
Compatibility & Tank Mates
✔ Great With:
Betta fish (loves the cover)
Shrimp and fry (protection and food)
Goldfish and koi (natural snack)
❌ May Not Work With:
Strong surface agitation (gets pushed under)
Fish that eat plants rapidly (like some cichlids)
No Reviews added. Be the first one.