Sreepadma C100 Rotala sp. Big Bear | TC Live Plant

Introduction

ADA Rotala sp. ‘Big Bear’ is an exotic and stunning species from the Rotala genus, often available in Tissue Culture (TC) form. It is a highly sought-after plant for aquascaping due to its beautiful, compact growth, vibrant colors, and ease of care. When grown under optimal conditions, it becomes a standout centerpiece in aquariums.

Appearance:

• Leaves: Rotala sp. ‘Big Bear’ has small, elongated leaves that are typically green to reddish-brown depending on light intensity and nutrients. Under bright lighting and good care, the leaves may turn a striking red or burgundy, giving it a rich, vibrant appearance.
• Size: This plant grows relatively compact, typically reaching 24 inches (510 cm) in height. Its small size makes it ideal for use in midground or foreground aquascaping.
• Growth Form: It has a bushy and dense growth pattern, with stems branching frequently to create a lush, thick appearance. This branching makes it perfect for creating textured aquascapes.

Care Requirements:

• Lighting: Rotala sp. ‘Big Bear’ thrives under moderate to high lighting. High light promotes the intense coloration, especially the red hues, while low light results in a greener appearance.
• Temperature: This plant prefers tropical temperatures ranging from 72F to 82F (22C to 28C).
• Water Parameters: Rotala sp. ‘Big Bear’ does best in slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH range of 6.07.5. It also prefers soft to moderately hard water (310 dKH). Stable water parameters are crucial for its health and growth.
• Substrate: Like most aquarium plants, it thrives in a nutrient-rich substrate. Fine gravel, aquarium soil, or nutrient-rich substrates such as ADA Aqua Soil are ideal for promoting root growth and providing the plant with the necessary nutrients.

Growth and Propagation:

• Growth Rate: Rotala sp. ‘Big Bear’ has a moderate growth rate. Under good conditions, it can grow quickly, but it tends to stay compact, which makes it a great choice for aquascaping where space is limited.
• Propagation: This plant propagates by cuttings. Simply cut the stems and replant them into the substrate. The plant will quickly develop roots and grow into new plants.

Common Issues:

• Algae: Like many plants in aquariums with high light, algae can be a concern. Regular maintenance, such as trimming leaves, controlling lighting, and keeping nutrients in balance, can help prevent excessive algae growth.
• Stunted Growth: Insufficient lighting or a lack of nutrients can lead to leggy growth with pale leaves. Proper lighting, CO2 supplementation, and liquid fertilizers will help the plant thrive.
• Crypt Melt: Although rare for Rotala species, changes in water parameters (such as sudden shifts in pH, temperature, or lighting) could cause the plant to go into shock, shedding leaves. Ensure that the water parameters remain stable for the best results.

Benefits in Aquariums:

• Aquascaping: Rotala sp. ‘Big Bear’ is an excellent choice for midground or foreground aquascaping due to its compact and bushy growth form. It adds a dynamic color contrast to the tank, especially when grown under high light, where the red tones will stand out beautifully against green plants.
• Fish and Shrimp Friendly: This plant is non-toxic to fish and invertebrates, making it a safe addition to community tanks. Its dense foliage provides hiding spaces for smaller fish and shrimp, making it beneficial for the overall ecosystem.