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Proserpinaca Palustris
Proserpinaca palustris
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Haloragaceae
📍 North America
Mermaid Weed is a unique stem plant that changes leaf shape depending on whether it is emersed or submersed — submerged leaves are deeply serrated and comb-like, while emersed leaves are broader and simple. Under high light the deeply lobed leaves turn intense shades of orange and red, making it a striking colour accent in Dutch and Nature Aquarium layouts.
Tank Mates
Beneficial algae grazers that won't damage plant tissue and help maintain tank cleanliness
Small, peaceful shrimp that won't uproot or consume plant leaves
Gentle algae eaters that graze without damaging stem plants
Complementary foreground plant that creates attractive layered aquascaping
Small, peaceful fish that won't uproot plants and add visual interest to planted tanks
Compatible stem plant with similar care requirements for cohesive Dutch-style layouts
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, loss of red pigmentation despite adequate lighting
Increase fertilizer dosing with comprehensive all-in-one formulas; ensure macronutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium) and micronutrients (iron, boron, manganese) are adequate; consider adding CO2 supplementation
Algae Overgrowth
Green spot algae, thread algae, or black beard algae coating leaves and stems, reducing photosynthesis
Reduce lighting duration to 8 hours daily, increase water change frequency to 30-40% weekly, add algae-eating shrimp or fish, manually remove affected leaves, maintain stable CO2 levels
Melting
Rapid leaf deterioration, transparent or mushy stems, plant collapse within days of planting
Ensure gradual acclimation over 2-3 weeks if transitioning from emersed to submersed form; maintain stable water parameters (pH 6.0-7.0, temperature 18-26°C); increase water circulation and reduce bioload
Slow Growth
Minimal new leaf development, weak stems, pale green coloration despite adequate lighting
Verify high-intensity lighting (8-10 hours daily); add CO2 supplementation; increase fertilizer dosing; ensure water temperature is within optimal range (22-25°C); check for nutrient deficiencies
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Required for best colour
- light
- High
- placement
- Mid–Background
- tank size
- 15 gallons minimum
- growth rate
- Moderate
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.0
- hardness
- 2–10 dGH
- temperature
- 64–79°F (18–26°C)