Duckweed – The Floating Confetti of Your Aquarium

If your tank needs a touch of whimsy and a whole lot of green, Duckweed (Lemna minor) is here to party! This tiny, floating plant is like nature’s confetti, spreading across the water’s surface with its miniature leaves and cheerful energy. It’s fast-growing, low-maintenance, and packed with benefits, making it a favorite for aquarists who want to add a natural touch to their tanks. Just be warned—it’s a little too good at spreading!

Key Features:

🌿 Tiny but Mighty: Miniature green leaves that float on the water’s surface, creating a natural, carpet-like effect.
💧 Water Purifier: Absorbs excess nutrients like nitrates and phosphates, helping to keep your water clean.
🚀 Fast Grower: Spreads quickly, providing shade and cover for your tank inhabitants.
🐠 Fish and Shrimp Favorite: Offers shelter and a tasty snack for fish and shrimp.
💪 Beginner-Friendly: Thrives with minimal care, making it perfect for all experience levels.

Why You’ll Love It:

✨ Instant Greenery: Adds a natural, floating carpet to your tank in no time.
🌱 Functional Beauty: Helps improve water quality while looking cute.
🐟 Aquatic Playground: Fish and shrimp love hiding and nibbling under its leaves.
🛠 Low-Maintenance Magic: Grows effortlessly with little to no intervention.

How to Keep It Happy:

☀️ Lighting: Low to high light—it’s not picky!
💧 Water Conditions: pH 6.0-7.5, temperatures 50°F-86°F (10°C-30°C).
🪴 No Substrate Needed: Floats freely on the water’s surface.
✂️ Maintenance: Regularly scoop out excess Duckweed to keep it from taking over your tank.

Where It Shines Best:

✔️ Floating on the surface of aquariums, ponds, or paludariums.
✔️ Providing shade for fish that prefer dimmer lighting.
✔️ Nutrient-rich tanks where it can help balance water quality.
✔️ Low-tech setups where minimal care is a priority.

Bonus Tip!

Duckweed is a fantastic food source for herbivorous fish like goldfish and tilapia. If you have a pond or outdoor setup, it can even be used as a natural supplement for livestock feed!