Dwarf Water Lettuce

Pistia stratiotes 'Dwarf'

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Alismatales›Araceae

📍 Tropical Africa

Miniature form of Water Lettuce with rosettes under 2 inches. Long trailing roots. Better for smaller tanks than the full-sized version.

Tank Mates

Red Cherry Shrimp

Shrimp won't damage the plant and benefit from root surfaces for grazing and shelter

excellent

Otocinclus

Small peaceful fish that won't uproot the plant and help control algae on leaves

excellent

Emerald Dwarf Rasbora

Peaceful schooling fish that appreciate the shade and shelter provided by floating plants

good

Amano Shrimp

Large shrimp that won't damage the plant and will help maintain the tank ecosystem

excellent

Java Moss

Companion plant that creates a lush planted environment with similar low-light tolerance

excellent

Dwarf Gourami

Peaceful fish that benefit from the cover and won't uproot or consume the plant

good

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, holes in leaves

Treatment

Add comprehensive liquid fertilizer containing macronutrients and micronutrients; perform regular water changes; consider CO2 supplementation if growth remains poor

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating the plant surface, reduced light penetration to leaves

Treatment

Manually remove algae with soft brush; reduce lighting duration to 8-10 hours daily; add algae-eating fish like Otocinclus or increase water changes

Root Rot

Symptoms

Darkening or mushy roots, foul odor, plant detachment from crown, wilting appearance

Treatment

Improve water circulation; perform 25-30% water change; remove severely affected plant material; ensure adequate dissolved oxygen through aeration

Melting

Symptoms

Rapid leaf dissolution, transparent or translucent leaves, plant disintegration

Treatment

Acclimate plant slowly to new tank conditions; maintain stable water parameters; ensure adequate lighting and nutrients; remove dead tissue to prevent decay