Salvinia Minima
Salvinia minima
Edited by Ivan F. · Reviewed
Beginner verdict
A tiny floating fern with fuzzy leaves that spreads quickly across the surface and shades the tank. It takes up nutrients from the water and suits shy, surface-loving fish. It is easy to grow, but it is invasive in many regions, so never let it reach local waterways.
- Light
- Low
- CO2
- Not Needed
- Growth
- Fast
- Placement
- Floating
- Max height
- 2 in (5 cm)
- Temperature
- 75–82 °F (24–28 °C)
- pH
- 5–8
- Needs substrate
- No
Salvinia Minima care mistakes to avoid
- Never dump it into local waterways. It is an invasive species in many regions.
- Thin it often, because it can cover the whole surface in weeks.
- Keep surface flow gentle, since strong currents push it under.
- Check local rules, because it is restricted in some areas.
How it spreads
It multiplies by itself at the surface. Just remove the extras.
Salvinia Minima FAQ
How tall does Salvinia Minima grow?
Tropica lists growth to about 5 cm (2 in) in a tank, and it can grow larger over time.
What light does Salvinia Minima need?
Tropica rates its light demand as low. Most standard aquarium lights are enough.
How fast does salvinia grow?
Quickly in good light. It can double its coverage within weeks, so remove extras during each water change.
Is salvinia legal to keep?
It depends on where you live, because it is invasive in some regions. Check your local rules before buying, and never release it.
Where to buy Salvinia Minima
Stores that list it under the same scientific name as this page. We earn nothing from these links. We have not bought from them, so check each store's own terms.
We have not found a store that sells Salvinia Minima under its scientific name yet. We add stores as we confirm them.
Live animals and plants travel by courier. Check the store's live-arrival guarantee, and only buy once your tank has cycled (see how to cycle a fish tank).
Not allowed without a permit in: Ohio and Texas (see the note above)
Some US states restrict certain species. Check our US state aquarium rules table and your state's own rules before you buy.