Mini Eriocaulon

Eriocaulon cinereum

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Eriocaulaceae

📍 Southeast Asia & Australia

Tiny rosette plant forming grass-like tufts. One of the most challenging aquarium plants to keep long-term. Needs very soft, acidic water, strong light, and CO2.

Tank Mates

Red Cherry Shrimp

Gentle foragers that won't damage delicate leaves and help maintain water quality

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Peaceful algae eaters that won't uproot or damage the plant

excellent

Otocinclus

Small, gentle fish that won't disturb the plant or create excessive water movement

good

Dwarf Hairgrass

Compatible foreground plant with similar care requirements for soft, acidic water

excellent

Anubias Nana

Low-light tolerant companion plant; place away from Mini Eriocaulon to avoid competition

good

Java Moss

Undemanding moss that thrives in acidic conditions and won't compete for nutrients

excellent

Common Diseases

Melting

Symptoms

Leaves turn translucent, become mushy, and dissolve; plant collapses within days

Treatment

Immediately check and adjust water parameters (pH, GH, KH); ensure pH is below 6.5 and GH below 4; perform 30% water change; increase CO2 if available; remove dead tissue to prevent rot

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Stunted growth, yellowing leaves, pale coloration, leaf holes or necrotic spots

Treatment

Dose comprehensive liquid fertilizer containing macronutrients and micronutrients; increase dosing frequency to 3x weekly; test water and adjust based on results; ensure adequate lighting and CO2

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating leaves, reduced light penetration, plant appears smothered

Treatment

Reduce light duration to 6-8 hours daily; increase water changes to 50% weekly; manually remove algae with soft brush; add algae-eating shrimp; check for excess nutrients causing algae bloom

Root Rot

Symptoms

Base of plant becomes dark and mushy, plant fails to anchor, overall decline despite good water conditions

Treatment

Improve substrate drainage and aeration; ensure substrate is nutrient-rich but not compacted; reduce organic waste accumulation; consider replanting in fresh substrate if severely affected