Water spangles, also known by their scientific name Salvinia minima, are charming floating aquarium plants that many fish keepers love to add to their tanks. These plants float freely on the water’s surface and bring a natural, calming look to aquariums.
If you’re new to aquarium plants or just looking for something simple and helpful, water spangles are a great option. This guide will explain everything in detail, from what they are to how to grow them and why they are loved by aquarists around the world.
What Are Water Spangles?
Water spangles are tiny plants that float on the surface of the water. Each leaf has a soft, fuzzy texture and traps small bubbles of air, which help the plant float. They don’t grow underwater like stem plants. Instead, they sit on top of the water and grow across the surface.
These plants are part of the Salvinia family, with Salvinia minima being one of the most common types found in aquariums. They are not just pretty; they also serve many useful roles in an aquarium.
Why Are Water Spangles Good for Aquariums?
There are many reasons why fish keepers like using water spangles in their tanks:
1. They Provide Natural Shade
The broad leaves of water spangles float on the surface and block direct light. This is helpful in tanks with fish that prefer low light, like bettas or tetras. The shade also helps reduce stress in fish, as it creates a more natural environment.
2. They Help Control Algae
Because they absorb nutrients like nitrates and phosphates from the water, water spangles help limit algae growth. Algae and plants both need the same food to grow, so having more plants means less food for algae.
3. They Improve Water Quality
Water spangles act as natural filters. They soak up extra waste and nutrients that would otherwise make the water dirty. In this way, they help maintain better water conditions for fish and other aquarium animals.
4. They Are Easy to Care For
These are considered easy aquarium plants because they don’t need any soil, special lights, or added CO₂. Anyone can grow them, even complete beginners.
Ideal Conditions for Growing Water Spangles
Water spangles will thrive if given the right environment. Here’s what they need to grow well:
1. Light
Although they are known as low-light aquarium plants, they grow faster in medium lighting. Use an aquarium light that mimics natural daylight. However, avoid strong lights for long hours, or the leaves may burn or turn yellow. As noted in PlantIn’s care guide, indirect light is often best.
2. Water Flow
Water spangles like calm water. Strong filters or bubblers can push them under, which harms their leaves. It’s best to place them in a part of the tank with slow-moving or still water.
3. Water Temperature
Water spangles grow well in temperatures between 68°F and 82°F (20°C to 28°C). This makes them suitable for most tropical tanks. Their tolerance is noted in several hobbyist guides, including Fluvico.
4. Water Quality
They prefer clean water with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. If your tank is balanced and cycled, they’ll do just fine. Avoid water with oil or dust floating on the surface, as it can stop the plant from breathing.
How to Take Care of Water Spangles
Good aquarium plant care is important for water spangles to grow properly. Here are a few helpful tips:
1. Trim Regularly
Water spangles grow quickly. If left unchecked, they may block all the light from reaching the bottom of the tank. Trim some leaves or remove parts of the floating mat every week.
2. Keep the Surface Clear
These plants need fresh air above them to grow. Clean off any dust or film on the water’s surface and avoid letting other plants or decor block them from light or air.
3. Check for Pests
Sometimes snails or insects can attach to the plant. Check regularly and remove any pests before they cause harm.
4. Avoid Overcrowding
Since water spangles are fast-growing, they can cover the whole surface in just a few weeks. Too much of it can reduce oxygen in the water or stop light from reaching other plants below.
Do You Need to Add Fertilizer?
Most of the time, no fertilizer is needed. In tanks with fish, there are already enough nutrients like ammonia and nitrate that these plants love. However, if you want faster growth, a light dose of liquid plant fertilizer made for aquariums can help. Avoid overuse to prevent algae problems.
Compatible Tank Mates
Water spangles are gentle and do not harm any fish. They are especially useful in tanks with:
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Bettas
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Guppies
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Mollies
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Shrimp
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Snails
These plants offer shelter, shade, and a calm environment. They are also safe in community tanks and with other floating plants, as long as there is enough space.
Common Problems and Fixes
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Leaves turning yellow or brown | Too much light or dirty water | Adjust lighting and clean the water surface |
| Sinking or dying | Strong water flow | Move plant to quieter part of the tank |
| Overgrowth | Lack of trimming | Remove extra plants weekly |
| Stops growing | Lack of nutrients or space | Add light fertilizer or reduce crowding |
Refer to Big Kahuna Aquatics for troubleshooting tips specific to Salvinia minima care.
Water Spangles vs. Duckweed
Many people compare water spangles to duckweed, another small floating plant. But water spangles are easier to manage, grow slower than duckweed, and are larger—making them easier to remove or control. Duckweed can become a problem fast, while Salvinia minima is much more manageable and less invasive in aquarium settings.
Final Thoughts
Water spangles are a beautiful and useful addition to any aquarium. They’re not just decoration—they help your fish feel safe, keep the water cleaner, and are very simple to care for.
If you’re building a peaceful, natural-looking tank, especially for low light aquarium plants setups, adding Salvinia minima is a smart and rewarding choice. With just a little care, these fast-growing aquarium plants will thrive and keep your tank balanced for months to come.
