Contents
Description
Fissidens Oblongifolius is a small aquatic plant that belongs to the Fissidentaceae family. This plant is native to South America, where it grows in freshwater streams and rivers. It is also known as Oblong-leaved pocket moss and is popular among aquarists due to its unique appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Bryophyta |
| Class | Bryopsida |
| Order | Fissidentales |
| Family | Fissidentaceae |
| Genus | Fissidens |
Appearance
Fissidens Oblongifolius has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other aquatic plants. It has small, oblong leaves that grow up to 2 mm in length. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy texture. The plant’s stem is also green and grows up to 1 cm in length. The plant’s growth pattern is similar to that of a fern, with numerous fronds growing outward from the center of the plant.
Care Guide
Fissidens Oblongifolius is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for aquarists. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Fissidens Oblongifolius prefers clean, freshwater with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Fertilization: This plant is not very demanding when it comes to fertilization. However, it will benefit from occasional doses of liquid fertilizers or root tabs.
- Soil: Fissidens Oblongifolius can be attached to rocks or driftwood using fishing line or glue. It can also be placed in a substrate made of nutrient-rich soil or gravel.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers low to medium light levels. Direct sunlight can cause the leaves to turn brown and die.
- Hardiness Zones: Fissidens Oblongifolius can be grown in hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fissidens Oblongifolius is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to algae growth if it is not kept in check. To prevent algae growth, ensure that the plant is not receiving too much light and that the water is not stagnant. Additionally, avoid overfeeding fish in the tank, as excess food can lead to an increase in nutrients that can promote algae growth.
Habitat
Fissidens Oblongifolius is native to South America, where it grows in freshwater streams and rivers. It prefers slow-moving water with a moderate current. It can also be found growing on rocks and other submerged surfaces.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fissidens Oblongifolius grow in saltwater?
A: No, Fissidens Oblongifolius is a freshwater plant and cannot tolerate saltwater.
Q: How fast does Fissidens Oblongifolius grow?
A: Fissidens Oblongifolius is a slow-growing plant, and it can take several months for it to establish and spread.
Q: Can Fissidens Oblongifolius survive in low light conditions?
A: Yes, Fissidens Oblongifolius can survive in low to medium light conditions. However, it may not grow as quickly or as vigorously as it would in higher light levels.
Q: How often should I fertilize Fissidens Oblongifolius?
A: Fissidens Oblongifolius is not a very demanding plant when it comes to fertilization. You can fertilize it once every two weeks using a liquid fertilizer or root tabs.
Related Plants
- Fissidens Adianthoides
- Fissidens Nobilis
- Fissidens Zippelianus
References
- Flora of North America North of Mexico Volume 28: Bryophyta, part 2. Flora of North America Editorial Committee, eds. 2007.
- Christenhusz, M. J. M. & Byng, J. W. (2016). “The number of known plants species in the world and its annual increase”. Phytotaxa. 261 (3): 201–217. doi:10.11646/phytotaxa.261.3.1.
- Aquatic Arts: Fissidens Oblongifolius Care Guide
