By weeebooo70@gmail.com 
When it comes to floating aquarium plants, few species are as admired and widely used as Amazon Frogbit (Limnobium laevigatum). Known for its charming round leaves that resemble miniature lily pads, Amazon Frogbit has become a favorite among aquarists worldwide. Whether you’re setting up a betta tank, a shrimp habitat, or a community aquarium, this floating plant brings a unique combination of beauty, natural filtration, and shelter.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Amazon Frogbit in aquariums—its origins, benefits, care requirements, compatibility with fish and shrimp, common issues, and FAQs.
What Is Amazon Frogbit?
Amazon Frogbit is a floating aquatic plant native to Central and South America, particularly the Amazon River basin. Its scientific name, Limnobium laevigatum, comes from Greek roots meaning “smooth water plant.”
It belongs to the family Hydrocharitaceae, which includes other aquatic plants like eelgrass and frog’s bit. Unlike rooted plants, Amazon Frogbit floats freely on the water’s surface, sending out long dangling roots into the water column.
The leaves are round, flat, and slightly glossy, resembling small lily pads, and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter.
Benefits of Amazon Frogbit in Aquariums
Adding Amazon Frogbit to your aquarium isn’t just about making it look natural—it provides several practical and ecological benefits:
1. Natural Filtration
- Absorbs nitrates, ammonia, and phosphates from the water.
- Competes with algae, helping reduce algae growth.
2. Shade and Light Control
- Creates a natural canopy that reduces excess light.
- Beneficial for fish that prefer low-light environments, such as bettas.
3. Fish and Shrimp Shelter
- Long roots act as hiding spots for fry and shrimp.
- Shy fish find comfort under the cover of Frogbit leaves.
4. Oxygen Production
- Adds oxygen to the water during the day through photosynthesis.
5. Aesthetic Appeal
- Creates a natural, Amazon-style aquascape.
- Great for blackwater or jungle-themed aquariums.
Appearance and Growth Habits
- Leaves: Smooth, circular, and floating on the surface.
- Roots: Long, trailing, and often white or light brown.
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, depending on light and nutrients.
- Size: Each rosette can spread 2–5 inches wide under ideal conditions.
Amazon Frogbit grows in clusters and can quickly cover the surface if left unchecked.
Ideal Tank Conditions for Amazon Frogbit
Amazon Frogbit is hardy and adaptable but thrives best under the following conditions:
- Tank Size: Suitable for tanks 10 gallons and above.
- Water Temperature: 64°F – 84°F (18°C – 29°C).
- pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5.
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water.
- Lighting: Medium to high light. Too little light = yellowing leaves.
- Water Flow: Gentle. Strong currents can damage roots and push plants into corners.
How to Plant Amazon Frogbit in an Aquarium
Unlike rooted plants, Frogbit does not need substrate. Here’s how to introduce it:
- Rinse the plant to remove pests or snails.
- Gently place the rosettes on the water’s surface.
- Ensure roots are submerged but leaves stay dry.
- Avoid areas near filter outputs to prevent damage.
Tip: Use a floating ring to keep Frogbit confined to one area if you don’t want it to cover the entire surface.
Caring for Amazon Frogbit
To keep Amazon Frogbit thriving in your aquarium:
1. Lighting
- Provide 8–10 hours of medium to high light daily.
- Use LED aquarium lights for best growth.
2. Nutrients
- Absorbs nutrients directly from the water.
- Supplement with liquid fertilizers if your tank is low in nutrients.
3. Pruning
- Remove excess Frogbit to prevent full surface coverage.
- Thin out roots if they become too dense.
4. Preventing Leaf Rot
- Keep leaves dry. Water splashing onto leaves can cause rot.
- Adjust filter flow to reduce surface agitation.
Amazon Frogbit in Different Aquarium Setups
Betta Aquariums
- Frogbit creates shaded areas bettas love.
- Roots provide cover for bubble nests.
Shrimp Tanks
- Roots trap biofilm, an excellent food source for shrimp.
- Shrimp fry use roots for shelter.
Community Tanks
- Reduces aggression by breaking lines of sight.
- Protects fry from predators.
Blackwater and Biotope Tanks
- Perfect for Amazon-style aquascapes.
- Mimics natural river habitats.
Common Problems with Amazon Frogbit
Even though it’s hardy, Amazon Frogbit can face issues:
1. Overgrowth
- Rapid spread can block too much light.
- Solution: Thin out regularly.
2. Yellow Leaves
- Caused by nutrient deficiency or poor lighting.
- Solution: Add liquid fertilizer and ensure good lighting.
3. Rotting Leaves
- Happens if leaves stay wet from splashing.
- Solution: Reduce surface disturbance.
4. Root Breakage
- Strong filter currents can damage roots.
- Solution: Use sponge filters or baffles.
Compatibility with Fish
Amazon Frogbit is compatible with most freshwater fish, but:
- Bettas & Gouramis: Thrive with Frogbit.
- Shrimp & Fry: Benefit from shelter.
- Goldfish & Cichlids: May eat or uproot Frogbit.
- Plecos: Generally safe but may disturb roots.
Amazon Frogbit vs Other Floating Plants
| Plant | Growth Rate | Size | Light Needs | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amazon Frogbit | Moderate-Fast | Medium | Medium-High | Bettas, Shrimp Tanks |
| Duckweed | Very Fast | Tiny | Low-Medium | Nutrient Control |
| Water Lettuce | Fast | Large | Medium | Open-top Tanks |
| Red Root Floater | Moderate | Medium | High | Colorful Aquascapes |
| Salvinia | Moderate | Small | Medium | Small Tanks |
Cost and Availability
Amazon Frogbit is widely available at local fish stores and online:
- Price: $8–$15 for a starter bunch.
- Portion Size: Usually enough to cover a 10–20 gallon tank.
- Shipping: Ships well if kept moist, but avoid freezing temperatures.
Why Choose Amazon Frogbit for Your Aquarium?
- Easy to grow, even for beginners.
- Provides ecological benefits like algae control.
- Enhances the natural beauty of tanks.
- Safe for most fish and shrimp species.
Conclusion
Amazon Frogbit is one of the best floating plants for aquariums thanks to its low maintenance, natural filtration, and beautiful lily pad-like leaves. Whether you keep a betta, a shrimp colony, or a community tank, adding Frogbit can improve water quality, provide shade, and enhance the natural aesthetics of your aquarium.
By maintaining proper care, trimming regularly, and balancing light and nutrients, you can enjoy the many benefits of this Amazonian floating gem.
FAQs about Amazon Frogbit Aquarium
Q1: Does Amazon Frogbit need CO₂?
No, it grows well without CO₂ supplementation, though extra CO₂ can boost growth.
Q2: How fast does Amazon Frogbit grow?
With proper light and nutrients, it can double in size every 1–2 weeks.
Q3: Can Amazon Frogbit block too much light?
Yes, if it covers the surface completely. Regular pruning keeps light balanced.
Q4: Is Amazon Frogbit safe for bettas?
Absolutely. Bettas love the shade and cover Frogbit provides.
Q5: Can I keep Amazon Frogbit in outdoor ponds?
Yes, it thrives in ponds during warm months but is sensitive to frost.
Q6: Why are my Frogbit leaves turning yellow?
Likely due to low nutrients or poor lighting. Add liquid fertilizers and adjust light duration.
Q7: Can Amazon Frogbit survive in low light?
It may survive but won’t thrive. Medium to high light is ideal for healthy growth.