Araguaia Hygrophila

Hygrophila lancea

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Acanthaceae

Variety of Hygrophila lancea · araguaia

📍 Araguaia River, Brazil

A compact, small-leafed Hygrophila with needle-like leaves that can take on striking red and pink hues under strong lighting. Ideal for the midground in Iwagumi and Nature Aquarium layouts where space is at a premium. One of the more colourful members of the genus.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Peaceful algae grazers that won't damage delicate plant leaves

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Small, non-destructive shrimp that benefit from plant cover and won't uproot stems

excellent

Ember Tetra

Tiny, peaceful fish that thrive in planted tanks and provide visual contrast

good

Dwarf Hairgrass

Complementary foreground plant that pairs well with midground Araguaia Hygrophila

excellent

Anubias Nana

Slow-growing companion plant with similar care requirements and hardiness

excellent

German Blue Ram

Peaceful dwarf cichlid that appreciates planted cover without uprooting stems

good

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, loss of red pigmentation

Treatment

Increase fertilizer dosing (macro and micronutrients), ensure CO2 supplementation, and verify adequate lighting. Perform 25% water changes weekly to maintain nutrient balance.

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating leaves, reduced light penetration, plant decline

Treatment

Reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours daily, increase water changes, add algae-eating fish (Otocinclus), and manually remove affected leaves. Ensure CO2 and fertilizer are balanced.

Melting

Symptoms

Rapid leaf deterioration, transparent or mushy stems, plant collapse

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent partial changes, gradually acclimate plant to new conditions, increase CO2 and fertilizer, and remove severely damaged portions. Melting often resolves within 2-3 weeks.

Slow Growth

Symptoms

Minimal new leaf development, small leaf size, pale appearance

Treatment

Increase light intensity to medium-high (8-10 hours daily), boost CO2 injection, and enhance fertilizer regimen. Ensure water temperature remains 22-28°C and pH is 6.0-7.5.