Anacharis – Egeria densa / Elodea densa
Anacharis – Egeria densa / Elodea densa
Anacharis (Egeria densa, commonly sold as Elodea densa) is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly freshwater aquarium plants. Known for its fast growth and bright green leafy stems, Anacharis is a hardy plant that can help absorb excess nutrients and add natural cover to aquariums.
This versatile plant can be planted in the substrate or left floating, making it a great option for beginner planted tanks, breeding tanks, goldfish aquariums, shrimp tanks, and peaceful community setups. Its rapid growth and adaptability make it useful for aquarists who want an easy, low-maintenance plant.
Key Features
- Fast-growing freshwater stem plant
- Beginner-friendly and easy to maintain
- Can be planted or floated
- Helps absorb excess nutrients from the water column
- Provides cover for fry, shrimp, and small fish
- Great for goldfish tanks, community aquariums, and new setups
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Egeria densa, commonly sold as Elodea densa
- Common Names: Anacharis, Elodea
- Plant Type: Stem / bunch plant
- Placement: Background or floating plant
- Lighting: Low to moderate
- Temperature: 60–78°F
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Water Hardness: Soft to hard
- Growth Rate: Fast
- Care Level: Easy
- CO2: Not required
Tank Placement
Anacharis can be planted in the substrate as a background plant or left floating near the surface. When planted, place the stems gently into the substrate and avoid crushing the lower portion of the plant.
As a floating plant, Anacharis provides shade, surface cover, and hiding areas for fry and shrimp. It can also help create a more natural look in breeding tanks and low-tech aquariums.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Anacharis grows well in low-tech aquariums and does not require CO2 injection. Low to moderate lighting is usually enough, though stronger lighting and available nutrients can encourage faster growth.
Because it grows quickly, Anacharis can help absorb excess nutrients from the water column. Regular trimming helps control its height and keeps the aquarium looking neat.
Trimming & Maintenance
Trim Anacharis as needed to prevent it from overtaking the aquarium. Healthy cuttings can be replanted or floated to create more growth. Remove any soft, melting, or damaged stems during routine maintenance.
Anacharis often does best in cooler to moderate temperatures and may struggle in very warm aquariums long term.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Beginner planted aquariums
- Low-tech freshwater tanks
- Goldfish aquariums
- Breeding tanks and fry cover
- Shrimp tanks
- Background planting or floating cover
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anacharis beginner-friendly?
Yes. Anacharis is one of the easiest freshwater aquarium plants to grow and is a great choice for beginners.
Can Anacharis float?
Yes. Anacharis can be floated or planted in the substrate, making it very versatile in aquarium setups.
Does Anacharis need CO2?
No. Anacharis grows well in low-tech aquariums without CO2 injection.
Is Anacharis good for goldfish tanks?
Yes. Anacharis is often used in goldfish tanks, though goldfish may nibble on it or pull stems loose.
How fast does Anacharis grow?
Anacharis can grow quickly when lighting, nutrients, and temperature are suitable. Regular trimming may be needed.
Can Anacharis help with nitrates?
Fast-growing plants like Anacharis can help absorb excess nutrients, including nitrates, as part of a balanced aquarium maintenance routine.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Anacharis is a great choice for aquarists looking for a hardy, fast-growing, beginner-friendly aquarium plant for freshwater tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, and aquarium supplies.
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