Elodea Lighting Requirements

The Elodea, also known as Anacharis, is native to South and North America, according to Fish Profiles. It is an aquatic plant recommended for beginning aquarists as they are hardy. It is used as both a decorative plant and as fish food for goldfish and other fish herbivores. Under ideal conditions with plenty of nutrients in the water column, Elodea can double in size in just a few weeks. Elodea tolerates all light levels from low to high.

  1. Low Light

    • Elodea can tolerate low full-spectrum light. A light level between 1.5 and 2 watts per gallon is considered low light, according to Aqua Botanic. Full spectrum lighting refers to lighting that resembles natural sunlight with a Kelvin rating between 5000k and 6500k. It grows slower and thinner under low light conditions. The lower part of the plant may rot away. The stem spacing between the leaves increases with a decrease in light. The plant grows taller in hopes of reaching more light. The plant displays a light green color in such conditions.

    Medium Light

    • Under medium full-spectrum lighting, Elodea grows faster and thicker. Medium light levels are between 2 and 3 watts per gallon. The green color is darker than at low light. The stem spacing between the leaves decreases and the whole plant stays green.

    Bright Light

    • Bright light levels of 3 watts per gallon or more cause the Elodea to exhibit a dark green color. The plant is fuller and grows quickly. The stem spacing between leaves is small and imperceptible. Elodea roots easily in bright light and can easily attain a length of several feet, according to Aqualand Pets Plus.