Description
Anacharis (Egeria densa) is a fast-growing and hardy freshwater aquarium plant perfect for beginners and experienced aquascapers alike. Often called the oxygen plant, Anacharis is well-known for its ability to improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and releasing oxygen, creating a cleaner and healthier environment for fish and shrimp.
With its vibrant green, feathery leaves and easy growth habit, Egeria densa , also known as Elodea densa, makes an excellent background plant or floating stem plant in aquariums. It thrives in a wide range of water conditions, grows quickly under moderate light, and provides natural shelter for small fish and fry.
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Why Choose Anacharis Plant?
Excellent oxygenator: Improves water quality and supports a healthy ecosystem.
Fast-growing & hardy: Perfect for beginners and low-maintenance tanks.
Versatile use: Can be planted in substrate or left floating.
Tolerates various lighting conditions: Grows well in low to high light setups.
Ideal for fish & shrimp tanks: Provides hiding spots, grazing surfaces, and spawning areas.
Helps control algae: Competes for nutrients, keeping your aquarium balanced.
How to Plant Anacharis Plant in Your Aquarium
Rinse the plant gently to remove debris or gel before introducing it to your tank.
Trim the ends of the stems slightly to encourage new root growth.
Plant individual stems into the substrate about 1–2 inches deep, spacing them apart for light penetration.
Alternatively, Anacharis can be left floating for easy maintenance and flexibility.
Provide moderate lighting and clean water flow for steady, healthy growth.
Tip: Avoid planting the stems too deeply because the lower leaves may rot if buried.
How to Care for Anacharis Plant
pH: 6.5 – 7.8
Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
Lighting: Low to high (15–50 PAR). Stronger light promotes faster, denser growth
CO₂: Optional as this plant can grow quickly without CO₂ supplementation
Fertilization: Benefits from liquid fertilizers or nutrient-rich water column
Placement: Background or floating plant in freshwater aquariums
Anacharis Plant Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Anacharis plant grow floating?
Yes, Anachariscan grow floating as well as rooted in substrate. When used as a floating aquarium plant, it absorbs nutrients directly from the water column and continues to photosynthesize effectively. Floating Anacharis plants provide excellent shade, help reduce algae, and offer hiding spots for fish and shrimp.
Is Anacharis plant invasive?
Yes, in outdoor environments, Anacharis is considered invasive in certain regions due to its rapid growth and ability to spread quickly in ponds and natural waterways. However, when kept inside a controlled aquarium environment, it’s perfectly safe and easy to manage. Regular trimming prevents overgrowth and keeps your Anacharis aquarium plant looking clean and healthy.
Is Anacharis plant good for beginners?
Absolutely! Anacharis is one of the best aquarium plants for beginners. It’s hardy, adaptable, and grows well in a wide range of freshwater conditions without the need for CO₂ injection. This Egeria densa aquarium plant thrives under low to moderate lighting, helps oxygenate the water, and absorbs excess nutrients, making it both beautiful and functional.