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Rotala Mexicana Goias
Rotala mexicana
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Lythraceae
Variety of Rotala Mexicana · goias
📍 Brazil (Goiás state)
A feathery, needle-leaved Rotala from Brazil producing hair-fine, almost pine-needle-like leaves in green-orange to reddish tones. The extremely fine leaf texture creates a soft, cloud-like effect in the midground or background that is highly distinctive in competition aquascaping. Demands high light, CO₂, and soft, acidic water to thrive and colour up. One of the most visually unique stem plants in the hobby — a collectors' favourite.
Tank Mates
Gentle algae grazers that won't damage delicate foliage and thrive in soft, acidic water
Small, peaceful fish ideal for planted tanks; prefer soft water and won't uproot or consume plants
Complementary foreground plant with similar nutrient requirements and preference for high light
Low-light companion plant that can be positioned in shade created by Rotala's canopy
Peaceful algae eaters that won't damage plants; prefer soft, slightly acidic water matching Rotala's needs
Excellent algae control without plant damage; tolerate the soft, acidic conditions this plant requires
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency (Iron/Macronutrient)
Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, loss of red coloration, interveinal chlorosis
Increase fertilizer dosing; test water parameters and adjust macronutrient and micronutrient supplementation. Ensure adequate lighting and CO₂ to maximize nutrient uptake
Algae Overgrowth (Green/Black Spot Algae)
Green or black spots on leaves, coating of algae on foliage, reduced light penetration
Increase water change frequency, reduce photoperiod to 8-10 hours daily, boost CO₂ injection, and introduce algae-eating shrimp or fish. Manual removal of affected leaves may be necessary
Melting (Leaf Dissolution)
Rapid leaf deterioration, transparent or dissolving foliage, plant collapse within days
Ensure water parameters match species requirements (pH 5.5–6.8, 0–6 dGH); perform gradual acclimation if recently added. Increase CO₂ and check for ammonia/nitrite spikes. Remove severely affected stems and replant healthy cuttings
Slow/Stunted Growth
Minimal new leaf development, small leaves, pale coloration despite adequate fertilization
Verify high light intensity (8-10+ hours daily), confirm CO₂ injection is functioning (30-40 ppm), and ensure soft, acidic water. Check for substrate compaction and consider root tabs if using inert substrate
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Required
- light
- High
- max size
- 10–25 cm (4–10 in) tall
- placement
- Midground to background
- substrate
- Nutrient-rich aquasoil
- growth rate
- Slow to medium
Water it likes
- ph
- 5.5–6.8
- notes
- Ultra-fine needle leaves are unique among Rotala. Soft, acidic water is essential. Grows slowly but is very rewarding.
- hardness
- 0–6 dGH
- temperature
- 154–174°F (68–79°C)