SafePlants

Dwarf Hairgrass: A Versatile Aquarium Carpet

Dwarf Hairgrass, a popular choice for aquarists, offers a lush, green carpet for freshwater tanks. Several varieties exist, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced hobbyists.

Considerations for Pets

• As an aquarium plant, it's important to ensure that any treatments or additives used in the tank are safe for all aquatic inhabitants.

Scientific Name and Common Names

• Scientific Name: Several species are referred to as Dwarf Hairgrass. The text mentions:
  • Eleocharis parvula
  • Eleocharis acicularis
  • Eleocharis montevidensis (Giant Hair grass)
  • Eleocharis Belem (Dwarf Hair Grass Belem)
• Common Names: Dwarf Hairgrass, Hairgrass, Spike-rush

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Poaceae (Grass family) - specifically mentioned in relation to Tufted Hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa)

Distribution and Habitat

• Eleocharis acicularis is noted as being native to North America.
• Tufted hair-grass (Deschampsia cespitosa) can be found in a wide range of habitats throughout the British Isles.
• Atlantic tufted hairgrass meadows exist in Atlantic and sub-Atlantic Western, Northern and, locally, western Central Europe and northern Eastern.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Dwarf Hairgrass is known for its long, light green, grass-like leaves.
• Under optimal conditions, it forms a dense, "hairy" carpet in aquariums.
• It spreads readily via runners, allowing it to quickly cover the substrate.
• Eleocharis Belem is described as a low-growing variety that sends out runners from the parent plant.
• Grey hair-grass grows in small dense tussocks and easily resembles a head of hair.
• Tufted Hairgrass (Deschampsia cespitosa) is a clump-forming grass.
• Deschampsia cespitosa stems are 7 to 75 cm (3&#8211 30 in.).

Ecological Role

• Tufted hair-grass is a significant element of various habitats.

Quirky Facts

• Tufted hair-grass was once used to form the roof of one of the oldest thatched cottages in England.