Monosolenium tenerum

Description

Monosolenium tenerum is a dark green liverwort native to warm-temperate to subtropic regions of northern India, Nepal, Eastern Asia, and Hawaii. It thrives on moist, shaded ground rich in nitrogen. This plant was introduced as an aquarium moss in 2002 under the name Pellia endiviifolia, but was later identified as Monosolenium tenerum by Prof. S.R. Gradstein. M. tenerum is often confused with Lomariopsis cf. lineata, a fern prothallium. It can be distinguished from Riccia fluitans due to its larger size and darker color. In aquarium culture, it forms cushions on the ground that can be propagated by parting them. The plant requires moderate temperatures, ample phosphate levels, and additional CO2 fertilization for optimal growth. It is best tied to rocks with a nylon line or tucked between other waterplants to prevent it from becoming too loose and forming a pest.