Indian SwampweedHygrophila polysperma

This plant is one of the toughest of all the aquatic plants. Depending on where it is growing, the size and shape of the leaves differ.

The natural habitat of this plant is marshes and bogs, where it is classed as a noxious weed in many areas.

Like the canary in the coal mines, if this plant does not do well, aquarium conditions need serious attention, because likely nothing else will grow either, and that includes animals.

​To increase your stock of this interesting and very attractive plant, just snip the healthy top and stick it in the substrate.

Hygrophila polysperma grows quickly enough that it can sometimes be used in aquaria with small herbivorous fishes as supplemental vegetable food.