Slender PondweedPotamogeton gayi

Potamogeton gayi is a very delicate-looking plant that has soft olive green leaves with reddish brown tips. The fine leaves are feathery and work nicely to contrast with other shapes and colours in the aquatic décor.

Potamogeton gayi is not difficult to keep, but it’s slow to establish itself in the aquarium. After it has settled in, though, the creeping rhizomes may need to be trimmed back, or they will take over.

This plant is best contained in groups and placed in the background, as it can reach a significant height. Trim the tops to keep the bottoms of the stems from going bare.

This plant is excellent in breeding tanks, where its soft leaves will provide a haven for fry or a depository for eggs. Avoid allowing algae to grow on the fine leaves. This may lead to smothering of the entire plant.