Red Root Floater
Phyllanthus fluitans
Also known as RRF, Red Root Fern
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Malpighiales›Phyllanthaceae
📍 South America
Popular floating plant with round leaves that turn red under high light. Long, red roots dangle attractively. Excellent nutrient absorber.
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by @mateocoello
by @karleenmendoza
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Tanks keeping this 🌿
Growing in 8 tanksCommunity tanks featuring Red Root Floater.
Compatible Livestock
Peaceful algae eaters that won't damage plant tissue and help maintain tank cleanliness
Small, non-destructive shrimp that thrive in planted tanks and won't uproot or consume healthy plants
Small, peaceful fish that appreciate plant cover and won't damage floating vegetation
Tiny, gentle fish that benefit from the shade and shelter provided by floating plant canopies
Algae-eating fish that help maintain tank health without harming established plants
Excellent companion plant that creates layered habitat and shares similar low-nutrient tolerance
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, particularly in new growth
Increase fertilizer dosing frequency; use comprehensive all-in-one fertilizers or separate macro/micronutrient supplements based on water test results
Algae Overgrowth
Green or brown algae coating plant surfaces, reduced light penetration, plant decline
Reduce lighting duration to 8-10 hours daily, increase water changes, add algae-eating fish or shrimp, maintain nutrient balance to prevent excess algae
Melting
Rapid leaf deterioration, mushy stems, plant disintegration after introduction
Ensure stable water parameters (pH 6.0-7.5, temperature 23-28°C); perform gradual acclimation; increase CO2 or fertilizer supplementation; improve water circulation
Root Rot
Darkening or blackening of roots, foul odor, plant detachment from substrate
Improve water circulation and oxygenation; perform partial water changes; remove severely affected plants; ensure substrate is not compacted or anaerobic
Tips from the community 💡
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Quick Facts
- co2
- not required
- lighting
- medium-high
- placement
- floating
- difficulty
- easy
- growthRate
- fast
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.5–7.5
- hardness
- 2–15 dGH
- temperature
- 72–82°F (22–28°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.