Hygrophila Serpyllum

Hygrophila serpyllum

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Lamiales›Acanthaceae

📍 Southeast Asia

Very small-leaved Hygrophila that creeps along the substrate. One of the few Hygrophilas suitable as a foreground/carpet plant.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Small, peaceful algae-eaters that won't uproot or damage delicate foreground plants

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Gentle invertebrates that graze algae without harming plant tissue; ideal for planted tanks

excellent

Dwarf Hairgrass

Complementary foreground plant with similar low-growing habit; creates cohesive carpet effect

excellent

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful fish that won't uproot plants; adds gentle movement without disturbance

good

Amano Shrimp

Efficient algae controllers that respect plant structure and help maintain tank cleanliness

excellent

Anubias Nana

Companion plant with similar low-light tolerance; creates layered foreground aesthetic

excellent

Common Diseases

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Green, brown, or black algae coating plant leaves; reduced photosynthesis; stunted growth

Treatment

Reduce lighting duration to 6-8 hours daily, increase water changes (30-50% weekly), add algae-eating fish or shrimp, ensure adequate CO2 and nutrient balance to outcompete algae

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Yellowing or pale leaves, slow growth, leaf holes or transparent patches, particularly in older growth

Treatment

Dose liquid all-in-one fertilizer or macronutrient supplements weekly; test water parameters; ensure substrate contains nutrient-rich components; increase CO2 injection if available

Melting (Tissue Decay)

Symptoms

Leaves become translucent, mushy, or dissolve; rapid deterioration of plant structure

Treatment

Improve water quality with frequent partial water changes; ensure stable temperature (23-28°C); reduce lighting temporarily; remove severely affected portions; check for ammonia or nitrite spikes

Root Rot

Symptoms

Blackened or mushy roots; plant fails to anchor; stunted or yellowing growth despite adequate nutrients

Treatment

Improve substrate drainage and water circulation; ensure substrate is not compacted; reduce organic waste buildup; perform water changes; replant in fresh substrate if severely affected