Droseraceae

Aldrovanda vesiculosa L.

Culture: Use a large tank in a sunny location, with a layer of peat, sphagnum, and loam on the bottom. Small aquatic animals (snails, daphnia, etc.) control algae and provide prey, and may be introduced along with muck and debris from a pond bottom, or from an established tank. A pot of Typha or some large, easily thinned floating aquatics like Eichhornia, are useful companion plants. Tanks should be carefully flushed with clear or DI water periodically, to prevent the buildup of salts.
Growth should be rapid in warm weather; Darwin Australia is tropical, and Aldrovanda from that locality is definitely at its best in the summer months. The addition of trace elements (esmigram) may be beneficial if growth slows despite appropriate temperatures and lighting. CO2 injection is also appreciated. Keep floating plants thinned.