More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 15°C / 59.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 15-40mg/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
Lomariopsis prothallium, commonly known as "Suesswassertang", "Loma fern," or "round pellia," is the gametophyte of a fern, not a moss or algae. Discovered by Christel Kasselmann around 2001, this plant's origins remain a mystery, with DNA analysis suggesting a close relation to Lomariopsis lineata found in South-East Asia. The plant resembles liverworts like Monosolenium tenerum, with distinguishing characteristics like a thin, membrane-like thallus and transparent, darker green color.
Aquarium Suitability
With a very easy difficulty level, Lomariopsis prothallium is occasionally available commercially and suitable for nano tanks and as a midground or foreground plant. It thrives in water temperatures between 22-28°C and a pH range of 5-7.5. The plant has slow growth and can be used as an epiphyte on hardscape.
Demands and Hardiness
The plant has light requirements ranging from low to high and tolerates a wide range of water parameters, including carbon dioxide levels of 15-40mg/l and nitrate concentrations of 10-50mg/l. Propagation is achieved through splitting and cutting off daughter plants.
Aquascaping & Usage
Ideal for aquariums, Lomariopsis prothallium serves as an attractive foreground or midground plant, especially under intensive light. Its stable thalli can attach to decorative materials in the tank, making it a versatile choice for aquascaping.
Propagation
Propagation of Lomariopsis prothallium is relatively straightforward and involves splitting the plant or removing daughter plants for further growth. This method allows for easy expansion of the population in the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Lomariopsis prothallium is believed to be related to Lomariopsis lineata, a fern found in South-East Asia. Both species exhibit epiphytic growth on trees or rocks in periodically dry rivers. While the exact distribution of Lomariopsis prothallium in the wild remains unclear, its adaptability to varying conditions makes it a popular choice among aquarists worldwide.