About the Purple Fringed Riccia
Plant Name: Ricciocarpos natans
Care Level: Easy
Recommended Substrate: Floating or tied to objects
Recommended Lighting: Low to high lighting
Max Plant Size: Variable; forms dense floating mats
Foreground, Midground, or Background?: Floating
Need CO2?: Not necessary
Fun Fact: Ricciocarpos natans, commonly known as Floating Crystalwort, is a small, floating liverwort that adds a touch of natural beauty to aquariums. Despite its delicate appearance, it is a hardy and adaptable plant that can thrive in various conditions.
Appearance: Ricciocarpos natans features small, round thallus structures that float on the water's surface. The thalli are typically bright green, creating a carpet-like effect when they come together. Notably, this plant is distinguished by its intriguing purple roots, adding a unique touch to its aesthetic.
Habitat: Native to North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, Floating Crystalwort is found in calm or slow-moving waters, where it forms dense mats on the surface.
Aquarium Use: This plant is ideal for creating natural-looking floating mats in the aquarium. It provides shade for aquatic inhabitants, serves as a spawning site for certain fish, and contributes to the aesthetics of the aquascape.
Care: Floating Crystalwort is undemanding and can thrive in a range of lighting conditions. It doesn't require planting in the substrate and can be left to float freely or tied to objects like stones or driftwood.
Propagation: Propagation is achieved through fragmentation. Simply separate portions of the plant and let them float or attach them to new surfaces. Over time, they will grow into new mats.
Note: Regular trimming may be necessary to manage the size of the floating mats and prevent excessive shading of other plants. Ricciocarpos natans, with its captivating purple roots, is a charming addition to freshwater aquariums, providing a natural and dynamic element to the aquascape.