Riccia Fluitans: The Versatile Floating Wonder

Latin Name: Riccia fluitans
Place of Origin: Cosmopolitan (Found globally in freshwater habitats)

Riccia fluitans, also known as Floating Crystalwort, is a versatile aquatic plant that has captivated aquarists worldwide. This floating plant is known for its bright green, moss-like appearance and its ability to grow both submerged and floating. Native to a wide range of freshwater habitats across the globe, Riccia fluitans adds a unique aesthetic to aquariums, making it a popular choice for aquascaping and naturalistic setups.

Appearance

Riccia fluitans has a delicate, mossy texture with small, branching stems that form dense, compact mats. Its bright green color stands out, providing a vibrant contrast against other plants and hardscape. Whether floating on the water’s surface or attached to rocks and driftwood, this plant creates a lush, natural look in any aquarium.

Aquarium Care and Requirements

Lighting:
This plant thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions. Strong lighting encourages compact growth and maintains its bright green coloration. In lower light, it may become less dense and lose some of its vibrant color.

Substrate and Nutrients:
Riccia fluitans does not require a substrate as it can float freely on the water's surface. However, it can be tied to rocks or driftwood to create a stunning, submerged effect. While it can absorb nutrients from the water column, liquid fertilizers will help promote healthier and faster growth.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 68-82°F (20-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-8.0
• Hardness: Soft to hard water (2-12 dGH)

CO2 Injection:
While not necessary, injecting CO2 will significantly boost the growth rate of Riccia fluitans, especially when grown submerged. CO2 helps the plant remain dense and vibrant, particularly in high-light setups.

Pruning and Propagation:
Due to its fast-growing nature, Riccia fluitans may require regular pruning to prevent it from taking over the tank. Simply trim the plant to control its spread. Propagation is easy, as broken-off fragments will continue to grow independently, creating new plants.

Benefits to the Aquarium

Riccia fluitans serves multiple purposes in an aquarium. When floating, it provides shade and a surface for fish to spawn, making it especially useful in breeding tanks. It also offers a safe haven for fry and shrimp, as its dense growth provides ample cover. Additionally, like other plants, Riccia fluitans helps improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and releasing oxygen.

Conclusion

Riccia fluitans is an incredibly adaptable and low-maintenance plant, making it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists. Its versatility—whether floating or anchored—combined with its aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, makes it a perfect addition to any aquarium. If you're looking to enhance the natural beauty of your tank or create a unique aquascape, Riccia fluitans is an excellent choice that will thrive with minimal care.