Troubleshooting
Brazilian Micro Sword problems — and how to fix them
Brazilian Micro Sword (Lilaeopsis brasiliensis) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Sparse, non-carpeting growth
Low light is the most common cause. Ensure PAR at substrate exceeds 40 and consider adding CO2 injection to stimulate runner production.
Algae on leaf blades
Short blades can be quickly smothered by green spot algae. Add nerite snails and Otocinclus catfish; maintain stable CO2 and lighting duration.
Melting after planting
Tissue-cultured or emersed plants commonly melt when first submerged. New submersed leaves will grow within 2–3 weeks; remove dead material.
Slow runner spread
Without CO2 injection and adequate light, runner spread is very slow. Address these two factors first before assuming substrate or fertiliser issues.
Competition from other plants
Faster-growing mid-ground plants can shade out the low carpet. Maintain regular trimming of surrounding plants to protect light access.
Prevent brazilian micro sword problems before they start
Most brazilian micro sword issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Brazilian Micro Sword problems — FAQ
Why is my brazilian micro sword sparse, non-carpeting growth?
Low light is the most common cause. Ensure PAR at substrate exceeds 40 and consider adding CO2 injection to stimulate runner production.
Why is my brazilian micro sword algae on leaf blades?
Short blades can be quickly smothered by green spot algae. Add nerite snails and Otocinclus catfish; maintain stable CO2 and lighting duration.
Why is my brazilian micro sword melting after planting?
Tissue-cultured or emersed plants commonly melt when first submerged. New submersed leaves will grow within 2–3 weeks; remove dead material.
Why is my brazilian micro sword slow runner spread?
Without CO2 injection and adequate light, runner spread is very slow. Address these two factors first before assuming substrate or fertiliser issues.
Why is my brazilian micro sword competition from other plants?
Faster-growing mid-ground plants can shade out the low carpet. Maintain regular trimming of surrounding plants to protect light access.