Crystalwort

Description

Riccia fluitans, or crystalwort, is a floating plant found worldwide. It was first scientifically described in 1753 by Linnaeus. Takashi Amano from Japan pioneered submersed cultivation of this plant by tying it to wood and rocks with a thin fishing line. Riccia is suitable for submersed cultivation only when originating from Japan. Riccia fluitans is easy to cultivate due to its tolerance of various environmental conditions, including water hardness levels (very soft to hard), pH values (5-8), and temperatures (15-30°C). As a floating plant, it doesn't require high light intensities or CO2 fertilization. However, when cultivated submersed, it requires increased light and CO2. The plant prefers a high nutrient supply, including nitrate, phosphate, iron, and potassium. When kept as a floater, Riccia may develop into an unsightly cluster, but trimming is easy by removing unwanted parts. For submersed cultivation, tying the plant to objects like wood or rocks with a hairnet or small rocks can create a carpet in the aquarium foreground. Overgrown parts can be removed with scissors to prevent lower parts from dying due to lack of light. Takashi Amano demonstrated the potential of submersed Riccia cultivation for setting up nature aquariums, creating carpets that add warmth to the environment.