TROPICAL AQUARIUM FISHES 



183 



Fig. 131. Japanese Spatterdock (Reduced tzuo-thirds) 



The Japanese Spatterdock, Alisina spec, has leaves of a considerably 

 darker sage green, broader at the base. It is a continuous grower, has no 

 aerial leaves and multiplies readily at the rhizome. Altogether a satisfac- 

 tory plant for the large aquarium. 



FONTINALIS 



Known as \Mllowmoss these plants are found attached to stones 

 or other substantial objects. They are of a pleasing dark-green color and 

 have the advantage of doing well in a subdued light, although a moderate 

 amount of direct sun does them no harm. 



Fontinalis antipyretica grows in long branching form, with leaves 

 closely adhering to the stem. It occurs in cold-water streams and rivers, 

 being very plentiful in some localities but is not freely distributed. 



Fontinalis gracilis is very much smaller and threadlike, the leaves 

 being so small as to appear like a roughness on the stem. In the aquarium 

 this plant seems to have a faculty of soon becoming covered with sedi- 

 ment. Indeed some aquarists find it useful to clear the water. As soon 

 as the plant becomes well covered it is taken out. rinsed off and returned. 

 As the stems are strong they stand this treatment successfully. A stone 

 containing a thick bunch of Fontinalis gracilis is an attractive feature in 

 the aquarium. It is a slow grower. The new leaves are bright green but 

 soon turn to a dark sage color. 



