What's eating my ludwigia glandulosa?

Ludwigia glandulosa is a slow-growing, deep-red aquarium stem plant that is particularly vulnerable to algae when light, CO2 or iron runs low. Its broad, richly coloured leaves attract pest snails and herbivorous fish. Emersed growth may attract aphids. Because growth is slow, algae colonisation is a serious threat that must be addressed quickly.

BBA attaches to leaf margins and older growth; green spot forms hard discs on large leaves Ensure CO2 above 25 ppm and high PAR, spot-treat BBA with diluted Excel or hydrogen peroxide, add SAE

Large leaves provide a broad rasping surface; damage appears as irregular holes or stripped undersides Introduce assassin snails, trap with blanched vegetables, keep tank well-maintained to reduce snail food

Broad, soft leaves grazed rapidly; slow regrowth means the plant struggles to recover Keep with peaceful plant-safe nano fish only; L. glandulosa cannot coexist with herbivorous tank mates

Colonies on stem tips above water; sticky honeydew and curled leaves signal infestation Spray with diluted neem oil on emersed sections, or submerge the plant briefly; rinse before re-submerging