Contents
Description
Fissidens Crispus, also known as “curly leaf,” is a popular aquarium plant among hobbyists. This moss plant is native to Asia, particularly in Japan, and is often used as a foreground plant due to its unique appearance and easy maintenance. It is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to two inches in height and up to four inches in width.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Bryophyta |
| Class | Bryopsida |
| Order | Jungermanniales |
| Family | Fissidentaceae |
| Genus | Fissidens |
Appearance
The Fissidens Crispus plant has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in an aquarium. Its leaves are curly and have a crinkled texture, giving it its common name. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern, with the center of the plant being the tallest. The color of the plant ranges from light green to dark green, depending on the lighting conditions of the aquarium. It does not have roots and can attach itself to any surface with the help of small hooks called rhizoids.
Care Guide
Fissidens Crispus is an easy plant to care for and can thrive in a wide range of aquarium conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0-7.5. It also requires good water flow to prevent the accumulation of debris.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but adding a liquid fertilizer once a week can help boost its growth.
- Soil: The plant can attach itself to any surface, but it prefers a substrate made of small rocks or sand.
- Sunlight: The plant thrives in low to moderate lighting conditions. Too much light can cause the leaves to turn brown.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can survive in a wide range of temperatures, from 68-86°F.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fissidens Crispus is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to algae growth if the lighting conditions are too high. In rare cases, it can also be affected by snails, which can eat away at the leaves. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good water flow and lighting conditions, as well as regularly clean the aquarium.
Habitat
Fissidens Crispus is native to Asia, particularly in Japan, and can be found growing on rocks, logs, and other surfaces in freshwater streams and rivers. It prefers shaded areas with good water flow and can also be found growing in rice paddies and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fissidens Crispus grow in brackish water?
A: No, Fissidens Crispus is a freshwater plant and cannot survive in brackish water.
Q: Can Fissidens Crispus be grown emersed?
A: Yes, Fissidens Crispus can be grown emersed, but it requires high humidity and regular misting to prevent the leaves from drying out.
Q: How often should Fissidens Crispus be trimmed?
A: Fissidens Crispus is a slow-growing plant and does not require frequent trimming. However, if the plant starts to become too large, it can be trimmed with scissors or tweezers.
Q: Can Fissidens Crispus be grown in a planted tank with other plants?
A: Yes, Fissidens Crispus can be grown in a planted tank with other plants. It is often used as a foreground plant and can create a nice contrast with taller plants in the background.
Related Plants
- Fissidens Fontanus
- Fissidens Nobilis
- Fissidens Zippelianus
References
- “Fissidens Crispus.” Tropica. Accessed 9 July 2021. https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/FissidensCrispus(030TC)/4459
- “Fissidens Crispus.” Aquarium Plants Factory. Accessed 9 July 2021. https://www.aquariumplantsfactory.com/products/fissidens-crispus-aquarium-moss
- “Fissidens Crispus.” Aquatic Arts. Accessed 9 July 2021. https://www.aquaticarts.com/products/fissidens-crispus-aquarium-moss-1
