Guppy Grass - The Prolific, Oxygenating Nursery Grass Product Name: Guppy Grass (Najas guadalupensis) – Handful/Bunch Difficulty Level: Very Easy Light Requirements: Low to High Growth Rate: Very Fast Placement: Floating, Background, or Planted CO2: Not Required Why Choose Guppy Grass? ✔ Instant Water Polisher – Rapidly absorbs excess nutrients, outcompeting algae ✔ Ultimate Fry & Shrimp Shelter – Dense, tangled growth provides perfect hiding spots ✔ Oxygenates Water – Fast growth releases ample oxygen for a healthier tank ✔ No Substrate Needed – Thrives while floating; can also be planted ✔ Super Adaptable – Grows in a wide range of water conditions Ideal For: New aquarium cyclers and beginner plant keepers Fry (guppy, betta, livebearer) and shrimp rearing tanks Natural nitrate control and algae suppression Providing cover for shy fish and invertebrates Plant Description: Guppy Grass is a fast-growing, fine-leaved stem plant with a delicate, branching structure. Its bright green, bushy form creates a beautiful, natural tangle that serves as a functional nursery and highly efficient water purifier. Key Features: Leaf Structure: Thin, flexible stems with small, linear leaves arranged in whorls. Growth Habit: Loose, branching, and bushy; can be free-floating or rooted. Height: 6-24 inches (forms dense mats at the surface when floating). Maintenance: Simply trim and replant trimmings for more. Care & Maintenance Guide 🌿 Placement & Style Methods Floating Nursery: Simply drop a bunch in – it will form a dense mat at the surface. Planted Background: Weigh down stems in substrate for an upright, bushy background. Mid-Ground Bush: Plant small trimmed portions to create separate bushy clumps. Breeding Trap: Use a floating ring to contain it as a dedicated fry haven. 💡 Optimal Conditions Factor Requirement Light Low to High (speed scales with light) Temperature 50-86°F (10-30°C) pH 6.0-8.0 Nutrients Absorbs directly from the water column ⚠️ Important Notes Rapid Growth: Requires frequent trimming to prevent overgrowth and shading. Can Be Fragile: Stems are delicate; handle gently during maintenance. May Shed: When adjusting to new water, some leaf drop is normal. Propagation: Incredibly easy – any trimmed stem can grow into a new plant. Benefits for Your Aquarium ✅ Nutrient Sponge: Consumes ammonia, nitrates, and phosphates, improving water quality. ✅ Infusoria Farm: The dense growth cultivates microorganisms, providing live food for fry. ✅ Oxygen Factory: Rapid photosynthesis significantly boosts dissolved oxygen. ✅ Stress Reduction: Offers essential cover, reducing aggression and shyness in fish. Tank Mates & Compatibility ✔ Perfect With: All livebearer fry (guppies, mollies, platies) Shrimp and nano fish (tetras, rasboras) Betta fish (provides resting spots near the surface) Any peaceful community tank ❌ May Need Monitoring With: Very large or rough fish (can break delicate stems) Low-maintenance tanks (can overgrow and require weekly trimming) High-light, high-nutrient tanks (growth can become explosive)