SafePlants

Blyxa japonica: A Popular Aquatic Plant

Blyxa japonica, also known as Japanese Bamboo Plant or Dwarf Soft Rush, is a captivating aquatic plant highly sought after in the aquarium hobby. Its grass-like appearance and vibrant green color make it a popular choice for aquascaping.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is commonly found in home aquariums, so there is a potential for pets like aquatic turtles to interact with it.
• Blyxa japonica is often used to create "lawns" in aquariums, increasing its accessibility to aquatic pets.

Considerations for Children

• The plant's grass-like appearance may be attractive to children who might interact with aquariums where it is grown.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Blyxa japonica
• Family: Hydrocharitaceae
• The genus name Blyxa comes from the Greek word "blyxo," meaning "to gush forth, spout out, bubble up."
• Synonyms and related species include:
  • Blyxa aubertii
  • Blyxa octandra
  • Blyxa Noroa ex Thouars

Distribution and Habitat

• Blyxa japonica thrives in stagnant, shallow pools, marshes, and slow-moving, iron-rich forest streams.
• It is commonly found in tropical regions of South Asia.
• One specific recorded location is the Dak Lak Province, southern Viet Nam.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Blyxa japonica is a stem plant with long, slender leaves that create a bushy appearance.
• It typically grows to a size of 6-10cm.
• The plant can develop a reddish or bronze hue depending on environmental conditions.
• It is a submerged freshwater herb with short or elongated stems that can be erect or stoloniferous.

Cultivation and Care

• Blyxa japonica is considered a medium-difficulty plant to grow.
• It benefits from medium to high light levels, with some enthusiasts recommending at least 0.7 watts per liter.
• CO2 supplementation is generally recommended, even DIY setups for smaller tanks (under 150L).
• Iron-rich fertilizers are beneficial for its growth.
• It is often used as a foreground or midground plant in aquascapes.

Quirky Facts

• Takashi Amano's underwater landscapes significantly contributed to the popularity of Blyxa japonica in the aquarium hobby.
• The exact combination of conditions that cause Blyxa to turn red or bronze has not yet been isolated.

Further Information

• The Plant List includes 38 scientific plant names of species rank for the genus Blyxa.
• Taxonomic Serial No. for Blyxa aubertii: 501003.