More info
Datasheet
Aquarium Compatible | yes |
Plant Outdoor | yes |
Plant Emersed Growth | no |
Plant Growth | very slow |
Plant Colors | dark green |
Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
Temperature | 15°C / 59.00°F - 24°C / 75.20°F |
Carbonate Hardness | 2-18 kh |
pH Value | 6-8.5 ph |
Light | low-high |
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 5-40mg/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
Marimo, scientifically known as Aegagropila linnaei, is a species of green algae belonging to the family Pithophoraceae. With a slow growth rate, this aquatic plant typically ranges in height from 3-10cm and spreads 3-10cm wide. Its dark green coloration adds a vibrant touch to aquatic environments. Native to various regions including Europe, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Japan, and parts of Australia and New Zealand, Marimo is a popular choice in the aquarium hobby.
Aquarium Suitability
Marimo is widely available commercially and is categorized as an easy-to-care-for plant, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. It is commonly used in aquariums as a midground or foreground plant in groups. While its winter hardiness is unknown, Marimo does not exhibit emersed growth. It thrives in temperatures between 15-24°C and tolerates a range of 4-28°C. The plant's growth is very slow, and it prefers low to high light levels and a pH range of 6-8.5.
Demands and Hardiness
Marimo requires a carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration of 5-40mg/l and can adapt to carbonate hardness levels between 2-18. It thrives in iron concentrations from 0.01-0.5mg/l and phosphates ranging from 0.1-3mg/l. Additionally, the plant benefits from potassium levels of 5-30mg/l in the water.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquariums, Marimo can be used to create visually appealing aquascapes. Its compact size and attractive dark green color make it suitable for adding depth and texture to aquascapes. Due to its slow growth rate, Marimo is often used to provide a lush appearance in the foreground or midground of aquarium layouts.
Propagation
Marimo can be propagated through splitting or cutting off daughter plants. This method allows for easy expansion of Marimo populations within the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution
Marimo is known to inhabit various regions, including Europe, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Japan, Australia (specifically Queensland, South Australia, Victoria), and parts of New Zealand. It is commonly found in freshwater environments, where it forms distinctive spherical growth patterns, contributing to the biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems.