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Ottelia Mesenterium
Ottelia mesenterium
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Alismatales›Hydrocharitaceae
📍 Southeast Asia
Spectacular Australian Ottelia with large, heavily ruffled leaves. One of the most dramatic aquatic plants. Very challenging to keep long-term.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae grazers that won't damage delicate ruffled leaves
Small, gentle fish that won't uproot or damage the plant
Excellent algae control without harming plant tissue
Companion plant with similar high-light requirements and low nutrient demands
Hardy companion plant that tolerates high CO2 and lighting conditions
Gentle invertebrates that help control algae without damaging leaves
Common Diseases
Algae Overgrowth
Green, brown, or black algae coating leaves; reduced light penetration; plant growth stunted
Increase water changes, reduce lighting duration, add algae-eating fish (Otocinclus), manually remove algae, ensure adequate CO2 and nutrient balance
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, leaf deformation, loss of ruffled appearance
Dose comprehensive liquid fertilizers containing macronutrients and micronutrients; test water parameters; consider substrate fertilization or root tabs
Melting (Tissue Decay)
Leaves become translucent, mushy, and disintegrate; rapid deterioration after planting
Improve water quality and stability; increase CO2 levels; ensure adequate lighting; perform frequent water changes; remove affected leaves; acclimate plant slowly to new conditions
CO2 Deficiency
Slow growth, pale coloration, leaf curling, loss of leaf ruffling and dramatic appearance
Install pressurized CO2 system; maintain 20-30 ppm CO2; use drop checker to monitor levels; ensure proper diffusion and circulation
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Quick Facts
- co2
- required
- lighting
- high
- placement
- centrepiece
- difficulty
- hard
- growthRate
- moderate