Guppy Grass (Najas guadalupensis)

Guppy Grass (Najas guadalupensis) is a freshwater aquarium plant for aquascapes and planted tanks. This guide covers placement, light, nutrients, propagation, and troubleshooting guppy grass growth.

Guppy Grass aquarium plant — Guppy Grass (*Najas guadalupensis*). Photo: Timothy McNitt https://www.inaturalist.org/people/frondsinhighplaces / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

Appearance and Growth

Typical height: variable; free-floating strands. Growth rate: very fast. Use as floating / midwater bush.

Light, CO2, and Nutrients

Light: low to medium
CO2: not required
Fertiliser: root tabs and/or liquid macros as needed

Water Conditions

Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5

Propagation and Maintenance

Trim tops or divide runners to propagate. Remove melting leaves after planting emersed-grown stock — new submerged growth follows.

Compatibility

Suits peaceful community tanks and shrimp setups. Large herbivorous fish may uproot or eat tender shoots.

Care Level

Care level: beginner. Match light and CO2 to stated needs for dense, healthy growth.

Conclusion

Guppy Grass (Najas guadalupensis) earns its place with steady maintenance and appropriate placement in the aquascape.