Nitella or Flexible Nitella

Flexible nitella is widespread. The plant forms dense growths in the water column, appearing as a tangle of dark-green, glassy filaments, the latter composed of long cylindrical cells.

Particles suspended in the water settle on nitella, so in aquariums where it is present in large quantities the water is clearer than in its absence.

Flexible nitella has no decorative value in the aquarium. Nitella is particularly convenient as a substrate for spawning, and also when preparing water for breeding nannostomus, neon tetras and some rasboras. It should be remembered that when the stems are damaged, substances that are lethal to eggs and fry are released, so a nitella clump is better not torn apart.

Nitella is undemanding, it prefers strong, diffuse light, water of medium hardness and a temperature of 20-28 °C. The best results in cultivating nitella can be achieved if it is not transplanted.