Salvinia Minima

Name

• Scientific Name: Salvinia minima

• Common Names: Salvinia Minima, Water Spangles, Common Salvinia

Characteristics

• Appearance: Features small, oval, light-to-medium green leaves that float joined in groups of three. The upper surface of the leaves is covered in fine, stiff hairs (trichomes) shaped like tiny eggbeaters, making the top water-repellent.

• Size & Structure: Leaves are small, measuring 0.25–0.75 inches (0.6–2 cm) across. Below the surface, a modified leaf functions as a root-like structure that hangs down 1–2 inches to absorb nutrients.

• Nutrient Sponge: Extremely fast growth rate makes it a powerful filter that rapidly strips nitrates, ammonium, and phosphates from the water column, helping to prevent algae blooms.

• Flow Sensitivity: Dislikes high surface agitation or direct water splashes from filters, which can cause the floating leaves to submerge and rot.

Temperature

• Ideal Range: 65°F – 82°F (18°C – 28°C)

• Note: Very hardy across a wide range of tropical and subtropical water temperatures.

Lighting

• Requirement: Moderate to High

• Note: Under sufficient light, foliage stays bright green and multiplies rapidly. Low light slows growth and may cause the leaves to turn yellow or pale brown.

CO2: Not Required.

Propagation

• Method: Vegetative Division

• How it works:

  1. The plant multiplies naturally by growing side stems that fragment into new independent floating colonies.

  2. To propagate or control its spread, simply scoop out clusters and transfer them to another tank or thin them out regularly to allow light to reach the bottom aquascape.