Common Duckweed

Environment

Surface floating plant, with no substrate needed. Tolerates a wide range of temperatures (15–28 °C) and pH (6.0–8.0). Moderate to strong light is sufficient. Caution: it can cover the entire surface and reduce light reaching plants below — remove excess regularly.

Feeding

It feeds on dissolved nutrients (nitrates, phosphates). Many fish (goldfish, cichlids, some characins) and invertebrates appreciate it as a vegetable supplement.

Health & common diseases

Common duckweed is very hardy but can turn yellow or decompose due to nutrient deficiencies (nitrogen, phosphorus, iron) or insufficient lighting. Excessive green algae growth can smother duckweed and limit its growth. To prevent these issues, maintain moderate fertilization, appropriate lighting (6-8h/day) and regularly remove excess to avoid suffocating the tank. Avoid treatments containing copper which can damage this floating plant.

Tips & tankmates

Excellent shelter plant for fry and shrimp. Very fast growth: plan regular skimming. Ideal for shading a betta tank. Never release into the wild. Note: Lemna minor is a native species in Europe and is not prohibited, unlike some invasive exotic floating plants.

Sources

• FloraAquatic
• Aquaplante — fiches plantes