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Eleocharis Belem
Eleocharis sp. 'Belem'
Also known as Dwarf Hairgrass Belem
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Poales›Cyperaceae
📍 Brazil (Belem region)
An extremely fine, thread-like hairgrass originating from the Belem region of Brazil, producing the thinnest, most delicate stems of any Eleocharis in the hobby. Blades rarely exceed 3–5 cm (1.2–2.0 in) tall, creating a wispy, ultra-fine carpet that looks unlike any other aquatic grass. Demands good light, CO₂, and a nutrient-rich substrate to spread reliably. A favourite among competitive aquascapers who want a finer-textured foreground than standard dwarf hairgrass provides.
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Compatible Livestock
Small, peaceful algae grazers that won't uproot or damage fine carpet plants
Gentle invertebrates that graze algae without disturbing delicate plant structure
Small, peaceful schooling fish that inhabit mid-water and won't damage foreground carpet
Complementary foreground plant with similar care requirements; creates varied carpet texture
Hardy companion plant for mid-ground; different growth habit and care needs balance the layout
Larger shrimp that graze algae without uprooting; may occasionally nibble tender new growth
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency (Iron/Macronutrients)
Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, loss of fine coloration, slow or halted carpet spread
Dose liquid fertilizers (all-in-one or separate macro/micronutrient supplements) according to product instructions; ensure adequate CO₂ and high lighting
Algae Overgrowth (Green/Black Spot Algae)
Green or black spots on leaves, algae coating plant surfaces, reduced light penetration to carpet
Increase water changes, reduce lighting duration if excessive, add algae-eating fish or shrimp, improve water circulation and CO₂ levels
Melting (Tissue Decay)
Leaves become translucent, mushy, or dissolve; plant appears to shrink rapidly
Improve water parameters (pH 5.5–7.0, softer water preferred), increase CO₂ and lighting, perform partial water changes, remove decaying tissue
Poor Growth / Stagnation
Minimal new growth, leaves remain small and thin, carpet fails to spread despite adequate time
Verify CO₂ injection is active, increase light intensity to 8–10 hours daily, dose comprehensive fertilizers, ensure substrate is nutrient-rich aquasoil
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Required for carpeting
- light
- High
- max size
- 3–5 cm (1–2 in) tall
- placement
- Foreground carpet
- substrate
- Nutrient-rich (aquasoil strongly preferred)
- growth rate
- Slow to medium
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.5–7.0
- notes
- Finest-leaved Eleocharis available. CO₂ and good light essential for carpeting. Softer water preferred.
- hardness
- 0–8 dGH
- temperature
- 154–180°F (68–82°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.