Cabomba Freshwater Plant
Cabomba (Green Cabomba / Fanwort)
Species: Cabomba caroliniana
Growth Form: Stem Plant
Coloration: Bright green with delicate fan-shaped foliage
Temperament: Peaceful
Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
Placement: Background
Lighting: Moderate to High
Flow: Low to Moderate
Diet: Nutrient absorption through roots and water column
Feeding: Benefits from liquid fertilizers and optional CO₂ supplementation
Care Level: Moderate
Cabomba Freshwater Plants (Cabomba caroliniana)
Common Names
- Cabomba
- Green Cabomba
- Fanwort
- Carolina Fanwort
Identification
Scientific Name: Cabomba caroliniana
Size: Typically grows 12–30 inches (30–75 cm), depending on aquarium conditions.
Cabomba is a beautiful stem plant recognized for its delicate, fan-shaped leaves and vibrant green coloration. Its soft, feathery appearance adds texture, movement, and a natural look to freshwater aquariums. When provided with proper lighting and nutrients, Cabomba forms dense backgrounds and creates excellent shelter for fish and fry.
Behavior & Role in a Freshwater Aquarium
Cabomba is commonly used as a background plant in planted aquariums. Its dense growth provides hiding places for small fish, shrimp, and fry while helping improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients. The plant's flowing foliage also adds a natural forest-like appearance to the aquarium.
Compatibility & Caution
Cabomba is suitable for most peaceful community aquariums and can be kept with tetras, rasboras, gouramis, livebearers, Corydoras, and shrimp.
Because of its delicate leaves, it may be damaged by herbivorous fish or species that enjoy uprooting plants, such as large goldfish, silver dollars, and some cichlids.
Care Level
Care Level: Moderate
Recommended Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
- pH: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
- Lighting: Moderate to High
- CO₂: Beneficial but not required
- Growth Rate: Fast
Fertilization:
Cabomba benefits from regular liquid fertilizers and nutrient-rich water conditions. Additional CO₂ supplementation can improve growth and coloration but is not essential for success.
Tank Mates
Suitable tank mates include:
- Tetras
- Rasboras
- Guppies
- Mollies
- Gouramis
- Corydoras
- Shrimp and snails
- Other peaceful community fish
Placement: Background
Fun Fact
Cabomba's fine, fan-shaped leaves provide excellent spawning sites and natural protection for baby fish, making it a favorite plant among breeders and aquascaping enthusiasts.