Rotala indica is a favorite of many planted-aquarium enthusiasts due to the way it adds color and depth to any aquarium in which it is placed

photo credit: Aquatic Arts

This ornamental plant is green at first, but it changes to a stunning pink or red hue when exposed to bright light.

Many fish keepers recommend Rotala indica because it brings color and energy to an aquarium. To those who are familiar with the name "Indian toothcup," the thin, delicate leaves that turn pink or scarlet in strong light will be instantly recognizable. It is a beautiful plant that requires little effort on your part to maintain, and it also thrives in a variety of environments.

The stems and leaves of Rotala indica will most likely retain their green coloration even in moderate illumination. If given enough light, carbon dioxide, and nutrients in the water column, it can outshine all green plants with brilliant shades of pink and red. Although this plant is easy to care for, it is susceptible to damage from aggressive fish due to its delicate stems and leaves.

Because it can grow so densely, this plant may need to be propagated at some point in the future. Therefore, the dense foliage of the plant may help the lower leaves to keep their original green color. The green leaves below the pink ones create a striking visual contrast, so this could be a good thing. Branches of the plant can be cut off and replanted in new locations. You can help the plant's vibrant colors spread by snipping off the flowering tops and replanting them elsewhere. By cutting off the stems near their bases, you can give the plant a bushier appearance.

References

Asian Liverwort (Monosolenium tenerum) is a rare, but very popular and attractive species of liverwort for the freshwater aquarium
Baby Tears (Hemianthus micranthemoides) A small and vibrantly green plant that requires medium to high lighting
Banana Plant (Nymphoides aquatica) is a rosette plant that is named for its large and highly unique roots
Brazilian Pennywort (Hydrocotyle leucocephala) is a very fast-growing and low-maintenance plant with leaves that closely resemble lily pads in shape and color
Chrismas Moss Xmas Moss for Sale (Vesicularia montagnei) is a rare, but very popular and attractive species of creeping moss for the freshwater aquarium
Coral Moss or Mini Pellia Mat for Sale (Riccardia chamedryfolia) is a rare liverwort from Southeast Asia
Geppi Moss (Fissidens geppi) is a very rare Asian aquatic moss that is occasionally available for the freshwater aquarium
Giant Marimo Moss Balls are widely kept as ornamental plants in jars
Indian Water Fern (Ceratopteris thalictroides) This lovely plant is extremely low-maintenance and easy to grow, making it a great choice for beginner aquarium hobbyists
Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) is a very popular plant in the aquarium hobby due to its impressive size
Lacy Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus Windelov) this aquatic plant was cultivated from and shares many characteristics with the original Java Fern plant
Madagascar Lace Plant (Bulb) Aponogeton madagascariensis is considered by many to be the holy grail of freshwater aquarium plants
Moneywort (Bacopa monnieri) Moneywort is a popular stem plant that grows quickly and has exceptionally bright green leaves
Phoenix Moss (Fissidens fontanus) This plant is a very fluffy, lush green plant that will attach to most surfaces and can eventually grow into a large mat of impressive size
Rotala indica is a favorite of many planted-aquarium enthusiasts due to the way it adds color and depth to any aquarium in which it is placed
Subwassertang is a great plant to keep in any freshwater aquarium due to its low lighting requirements
Water Wisteria (Hygrophilia difformis) is a surprisingly attractive, yet hardy and undemanding plant that is ideal for the larger aquarium