Pest identification
What's eating my limnophila aromatica?
Algae (green dust, thread algae)
Signs: Thin green film or threads on leaves, yellowing from light obstruction
Control: Add CO2 injection, reduce photoperiod, and introduce algae-grazing shrimp or otocinclus
Snails (ramshorn, bladder snail)
Signs: Pinholes and ragged margins on young shoot tips
Control: Remove by hand, use assassin snails, or set vegetable traps to draw them out at night
Aphids (emersed/outdoor growth only)
Signs: Clustered insects on stem tips cause leaf curl and sticky honeydew residue
Control: Knock off with a strong water spray; submerse affected stems briefly; introduce ladybirds for outdoor plants
Keep limnophila aromatica pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Limnophila aromatica pests — FAQ
What is eating my limnophila aromatica?
Limnophila aromatica (Rice Paddy Herb) is an aquarium and marginal pond plant. Algae is the primary in-tank threat, coating leaves when CO2 or flow is insufficient. Snails graze tender shoot tips. When grown emersed outdoors in pots or ponds, aphids and caterpillars may target the aromatic foliage during warmer months.
How do I get rid of algae (green dust, thread algae) on limnophila aromatica?
Thin green film or threads on leaves, yellowing from light obstruction Add CO2 injection, reduce photoperiod, and introduce algae-grazing shrimp or otocinclus
How do I get rid of snails (ramshorn, bladder snail) on limnophila aromatica?
Pinholes and ragged margins on young shoot tips Remove by hand, use assassin snails, or set vegetable traps to draw them out at night
How do I get rid of aphids (emersed/outdoor growth only) on limnophila aromatica?
Clustered insects on stem tips cause leaf curl and sticky honeydew residue Knock off with a strong water spray; submerse affected stems briefly; introduce ladybirds for outdoor plants