180 GOLDFISH VARIETIES A^D 



NITELLA 



Of the slender-leaved aquatics. Nitella gracilis is one of the best. 

 Our figure 128 gives a good idea of its dainty form. It is not freely dis- 

 tributed but is found occasionally in ponds and streams in the Eastern 

 States, usually attached to bits of stick or stone. From this it receives its 

 popular name, Stonewort. In removing the plant to the aquarium, it is 

 best to take also the base upon which it roots. If placed in a situation to 

 its liking Nitella prospers wonderfully in the aquarium and is a fine oxy- 

 genator. Under the microscope the leaves show the circulation of proto- 

 plasm better than any other plant. Requires plenty of light. 



LUDWIGIA 



Popularly known as Swamp Loosestrife, this plant in about 25 spe- 

 cies is widely and thickly distributed in North America, mostly growing 

 at the edges of streams like Watercress. Although in reality more of a 

 bog-plant than a pure aquatic, it does well in the aquarium, particularly 

 if kept in the earth of the pot in which it was propagated from a cutting. 

 Propagation is very easy in the greenhouse. About 5 short cuttings are 

 placed in a 2-inch pot, having a top-layer of sand. This is not done under 

 water but the pots need to be kept saturated and the air very moist. They 

 soon root and when they have developed about an inch of new growth 

 should be placed in the aquarium. 



Ludwigia is one of the more important aquarium plants on account 

 of its decorative value and pronounced individuality. When kept in a 

 strong light the under sides of the leaves become a beautiful red color. 

 Wild stock is not altogether satisfactory. It throws out too many roots to 

 make a pleasing appearance, and in the aquarium becomes attenuated in 

 character. A cultivated variety said to have come from South America 

 is better in every respect and is easily obtained, for it is the kind propa- 

 gated by dealers in aquatics. As it is sold in the original pots before being 

 plunged into water it can safely be sent long distances. Growing to a 

 length of several feet if untrimmed it is suited to large aquaria but may 

 also be kept small by pinching back. Unlike Anacharis it should not be 

 trimmed at the root end unless the stock has become quite old and no 

 longer prospers. Does best in strong light and may also be propagated in 

 the aquarium from cuttings. A little Ludwigia can be seen in our 

 frontispiece. 



