Lomariopsis prothallium

Description

The prothallium (gametophyte) of Lomariopsis lineata or Lomariopsis sp. is a fern-like plant, also known as "Suesswassertang", "Loma fern", or "round pellia". It was first discovered by Christel Kasselmann in her aquarium around 2001 and has since spread among hobbyists worldwide. This plant's identity was partially clarified in 2007 through DNA analysis, which showed a high similarity to Lomariopsis lineata, a species found in South-East Asia. However, its exact origin remains unknown. The plant exhibits a unique morphology, with a branching, ribbon-shaped thallus that is thin and transparent, with no midrib. It has broad round lobes, with rhizoids at irregular distances on the underside, often in groups. The thallus is more flexible and less fragile than Monosolenium tenerum. Compared to Monosolenium tenerum, Lomariopsis cf. lineata has several advantages: its thalli are more stable, can attach to decorative materials with rhizoids, and grow in a more compact way, especially under intensive light.