ADA – Lagenandra karalensis

ADA – Lagenandra karalensis (High Tech)

• Rare, remarkable Lagenandra species
• Still new and unknown as aquarium plant
• Resembling a Cryptocoryne

Lagenandra keralensis is a remarkable species from Kerala state in southwestern India that was scientifically described in 2001. It was until recently not at all known from cultivation, but surprisingly it is offered as tissue-cultured (in-vitro) plant by the Japanese company ADA. This species is not to be confused with an aquarium plant that is erroneously called “Lagenandra keralensis” and turned out as a narrow-leaved Lagenandra meeboldii form (see Lagenandra meeboldii “Kerala”). The true Lagenandra keralensis resembles broad-leaved forms of L. meeboldii but differs mainly in inflorescence features. The ovate leaves, sitting on a creeping rhizome, show brown tones. They have a finely ruffled margin and are covered with short hairs. According to the original species description, the leaf blades are 2,7-7 cm and the leaf stalks 2-7 cm long.

Until now, virtually no information about the aquarium culture of Lagenandra keralensis is available. This species occurs naturally on shady stream banks, as well as several other Lagenandra species. Its requirements are probably comparable with those of Lagenandra meeboldii. We recommend medium lighting, good water current, CO₂ injection and well-balanced macro- and micronutrient supply, also via the substrate. Its emersed culture should work with a moist to wet substrate and high air humidity.

Are you not sure if this aquarium plant will grow in your tank? We have made a guide to aid in growing/understanding aquatic plants. Check it out >here<. View other plants that will grow in: ( Low Tech | Medium Tech | High Tech | All Plants )

*This is a Tissue Culture Plant. They are grown in a Laboratory and are guaranteed to be snail, algae and pesticide-free. They are more expensive, even if the plant itself is smaller, the portion size is bigger. We recommend rinsing all tissue culture plants with dechlorinated water before planting.