Utricularia Species

Utricularia are bladderworts — rootless aquatic carnivorous plants that carry tiny bladder-shaped traps along fine, thread-like stems. The traps work by suction, snapping shut on very small organisms that brush past. This is an assorted listing, so the species that arrives depends on the shipment; ask our staff what is in the tank on the day rather than assuming a particular form.

Growing it in your tank

• Has no true roots; it drifts, tangles through other plants, or can be loosely anchored to hardscape.
• Growth habit and leaf size vary by species, so the look differs between batches.
• Does best in soft, acidic water with gentle flow.
• Grows steadily under moderate light without carbon dioxide injection.
• The traps capture microscopic organisms, so it is not the right plant for a tank where you are raising very small live foods or newly hatched fry.
• Fine growth can knit into a dense mass and needs occasional thinning.

It suits blackwater-style tanks, shrimp tanks and planted nano aquariums with small peaceful fish. It is an unusual plant rather than a workhorse, and it rewards someone who enjoys the odd corners of the hobby. Never release aquatic plants outdoors — dispose of surplus in the household waste.

Stock rotates with each delivery, and live plants are available for local pickup at our Lethbridge store. See the live plant collection.