Description

Guppy grass, najas grass, or – scientifically – Najas guadalupensis, is a fast-growing plant that removes heavy metals, toxins, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrates from the water while producing oxygen. It consumes almost every free nutrient in the tank – giving little opportunity for algae growth.

Although the name implies that it’s best for guppies, shrimp also love clinging to it as it has tons of nooks and crannies to pick food off of and hide within. Most small fish will also use it as a spawning mop, such as ember tetras, neon tetras, celestial pearl danios, and rainbowfish. It provides cover for the newly hatched fry and gives them a continuous source of microscopic food, such as infusoria.

If you’re considering adding guppy grass to your tank, read on to learn more about what it needs and some of the most common pitfalls!