Ludwigia Arcuata

Ludwigia arcuata

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Onagraceae

📍 South America

Ludwigia Arcuata is a fine-leaved stem plant with narrow, needle-like leaves that turn deep red to orange-red under high light and iron-rich dosing, contrasting beautifully with broader-leaved green plants. It requires more light and nutrients than L. repens to achieve its signature colour. Frequent trimming promotes bushy side-shoot growth and prevents the lower stem from going bare.

Tank Mates

Red Cherry Shrimp

Shrimp will not damage plant tissue and help control algae; they thrive in the same nutrient-rich, high-light environment

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Excellent algae control without harming delicate foliage; compatible with fertilizer regimens

excellent

Neon Tetra

Small, peaceful fish that won't uproot or damage fine-leaved stems; adds visual contrast

good

Otocinclus

Gentle algae eaters that graze without damaging plant tissue; prefer similar water parameters

good

Rotala Rotundifolia

Excellent companion plant with contrasting broader leaves; both thrive under high light and CO₂

excellent

Dwarf Hairgrass

Complementary foreground plant that creates layered aquascaping; shares identical nutrient and light requirements

excellent

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency (Iron/Nitrogen)

Symptoms

Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, loss of red coloration despite high light

Treatment

Increase fertilizer dosing frequency; add chelated iron supplement; verify CO₂ levels are adequate (30-40 ppm)

Algae Overgrowth (Green/Black Spot)

Symptoms

Green or black algae coating fine leaves, reduced light penetration, plant decline

Treatment

Reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours daily; increase water changes; add algae-eating shrimp or fish; check for excess phosphate

Melting (Tissue Decay)

Symptoms

Leaves becoming translucent, mushy stems, rapid tissue breakdown after planting

Treatment

Ensure gradual acclimation from emersed to submersed form; maintain stable water parameters; improve water circulation and avoid burying stems too deep

Slow Growth/Stunting

Symptoms

Minimal new leaf development, pale coloration, compact growth despite adequate light

Treatment

Verify CO₂ injection is active and stable; increase macronutrient dosing; check that substrate is enriched; ensure temperature is within 22-28°C range