Micro Sword (Lilaeopsis brasiliensis)

Micro Sword (Lilaeopsis brasiliensis) is a delicate, grass-like carpeting plant that forms a lush, low-growing lawn across the substrate of planted aquariums, creating a naturalistic meadow effect that is highly sought after in aquascaping. It is one of the classic foreground plants for adding depth and perspective to a planted tank layout, and a popular live aquatic plant choice at our Ottawa aquarium store and for aquascapers ordering plants across Canada. Micro Sword does best in moderate to high lighting to spread well and create a dense carpet — CO2 injection and a nutrient-rich substrate significantly accelerate growth and coverage. In lower light it grows more slowly and sparsely, but remains an attractive foreground option. It is peaceful and plant-safe with nearly all fish and shrimp, making it an excellent choice for intermediate planted tank hobbyists in Ottawa looking to create a carpet look without the more demanding requirements of HC Cuba or Glossostigma. Care Details Adult Size: 3–7 cm height Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons Temperature: 20–27°C Temperament: Peaceful Diet: Photosynthetic — benefits from root tabs and water column fertilization Lighting: Moderate to high CO2: Recommended for best carpeting results Growth Rate: Moderate (with CO2 and good light) Difficulty: Moderate Best For: Foreground carpeting, aquascaping, planted community tanks 🌿 Dense grass-like carpet — perfect for aquascaping 💡 Moderate to high light for best coverage 🌱 CO2 recommended for lush, spreading growth 🦐 Fully safe for shrimp and all community fish 🏞️ Creates a naturalistic meadow look in Ottawa aquariums Available from Ottawa Tropical Fish in Barrhaven, Ottawa.