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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | no |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 32°C / 89.60°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-21 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 2-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
The Wolffia arrhiza (L.) Horkel ex Wimm., commonly known as Watermeal, is part of the genus Wolffia and belongs to the family Araceae. It holds the distinction of being the smallest flowering plant globally, featuring a rootless, roundish vegetative body typically less than a millimeter in size. This diminutive plant can be found across continents like Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and South America, notably near Rio de Janeiro. In Germany, it thrives in areas like the rivers Spree, Havel, and the lower reaches of the Weser river, favoring stagnant waters shielded from wind and often coexisting with duckweed species from genera Lemna and Spirodela.
Aquarium Suitability
Wolffia arrhiza is considered very easy to care for in aquariums, making it suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists. Although this plant is rarely commercially available, it may be obtained from other hobbyists sporadically. Its rapid growth rate and minimalistic structure make it an intriguing addition to aquariums, particularly for enthusiasts looking to incorporate unique and low-maintenance flora into their setups.
Demands and Hardiness
As indicated in the table, Watermeal has flexible water condition requirements, thriving within a wide range of parameters. It can adapt to varying light intensities, temperatures between 20-28°C, and is known to withstand colder temperatures. Additionally, it can tolerate fluctuating levels of nutrients such as carbon dioxide, iron, nitrate, phosphate, and potassium, making it a hardy plant choice for diverse aquatic environments.
Aquascaping & Usage
Due to its free-floating nature on the water surface, Wolffia arrhiza can be utilized for creating visually appealing aquascapes. Its small size and fast growth make it ideal for tank owners aiming to establish a naturalistic look or introduce a different texture to their aquatic displays. The plant's ability to spread through fragmentation allows for easy propagation and the potential for covering sizable surface areas in aquariums.
Propagation
Watermeal propagates predominantly through fragmentation, where portions of the plant break off to form new individuals. This method of reproduction enables rapid expansion within an aquarium setting, making it convenient for aquarists seeking to cultivate a dense and verdant surface cover. By carefully monitoring its growth and providing suitable conditions, aquarists can encourage successful propagation of Wolffia arrhiza.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Wolffia arrhiza resides in sheltered stagnant waters alongside other floating aquatic plants like duckweed. It is commonly found in regions with tropical to temperate climates across different continents, showcasing its adaptability to diverse environmental conditions. This plant's distribution spans multiple continents, reflecting its ability to thrive in varying ecosystems and making it a fascinating botanical specimen with a widespread presence in the aquatic world.