Contents
Description
Micranthemum is a genus of aquatic plants that belongs to the family Plantaginaceae. It comprises about 10 species of small, delicate, and versatile plants that can be used in different aquascaping styles. Micranthemum is native to North, Central, and South America, where it grows in a variety of aquatic habitats, from streams to ponds.One of the most popular species of Micranthemum is Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’, which has become a staple in aquascaping because of its low-growing, carpet-like habit and its ability to adapt to different light and CO2 levels. Other notable species include Micranthemum umbrosum, Micranthemum tweediei, and Micranthemum sp. ‘Montevidensis’.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus | Micranthemum |
Appearance
Micranthemum has small, round, and bright green leaves that grow in opposite pairs along the stem. The leaves are usually less than 1 cm in diameter and have a slightly serrated edge. Micranthemum can grow up to 5 cm in height, but its growth rate can vary depending on the species and the conditions in which it is grown.Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ is particularly known for its low-growing habit and its ability to form a dense carpet of leaves. This species can grow up to 2.5 cm in height and can spread horizontally to cover a large area. Other species of Micranthemum can also be used to create interesting aquascapes, such as Micranthemum tweediei, which has a more bushy habit and can grow up to 10 cm in height.
Care Guide
Micranthemum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it has specific requirements that need to be met to ensure its optimal growth and health.Water: Micranthemum prefers soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. It also needs good water circulation to avoid the development of algae. Regular water changes are also recommended to keep the water clean and healthy.Fertilization: Micranthemum needs regular fertilization to thrive. It is recommended to use a liquid fertilizer that contains a balance of macro and micronutrients, such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilization should be done weekly or biweekly, depending on the intensity of the light and the CO2 levels in the tank.Soil: Micranthemum can be grown in different substrates, such as sand, gravel, or aquasoil. It is important to choose a substrate that is rich in nutrients and has good water retention properties. A layer of nutrient-rich substrate can also be added underneath the main substrate to provide additional nutrients.Sunlight: Micranthemum requires moderate to high light to grow well. It is recommended to use a full-spectrum LED light with a color temperature between 6500K to 7500K. The duration of the light should be between 8 to 10 hours per day.Hardiness Zones: Micranthemum is not a terrestrial plant, so it does not have a hardiness zone. It can only be grown in an aquarium or a terrarium.
Common Pests & Diseases
Micranthemum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems.Algae: Micranthemum is prone to algae growth, especially if the water quality or the lighting conditions are not optimal. To prevent algae growth, it is recommended to keep the water clean and well-aerated and to use an appropriate lighting system.Snails: Some species of snails, such as Ramshorn or Malaysian Trumpet snails, can feed on Micranthemum leaves and damage the plant. To prevent snail infestations, it is recommended to keep the tank clean and to avoid overfeeding.
Habitat
Micranthemum is native to North, Central, and South America, where it grows in a variety of aquatic habitats, such as streams, rivers, ponds, and swamps. Micranthemum can adapt to different water conditions and can grow both submerged and partially emerged.In the aquarium, Micranthemum can be used to create different aquascaping styles, such as Dutch, Nature, or Iwagumi. It can be grown in a variety of setups, such as low-tech or high-tech tanks, and can be combined with other aquatic plants to create interesting and dynamic compositions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Micranthemum suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, Micranthemum is a relatively easy plant to care for and can be grown by beginners. However, it still requires some basic knowledge of aquarium plants and their requirements.
Q: Can Micranthemum be grown without CO2 injection?
A: Yes, Micranthemum can grow without CO2 injection, but its growth rate and color may be affected. To promote optimal growth and coloration, it is recommended to provide adequate CO2 levels.
Q: How often should I prune Micranthemum?
A: Micranthemum can be pruned regularly to maintain its shape and promote lateral growth. The frequency of pruning depends on the growth rate of the plant and the desired shape. It is recommended to prune Micranthemum every 2 to 4 weeks.
Q: Can Micranthemum be grown emersed?
A: Yes, some species of Micranthemum can be grown emersed, but they require high humidity and specific lighting conditions. Emersed Micranthemum can be used in paludariums or terrariums.
Related Plants
- Hemianthus callitrichoides
- Glossostigma elatinoides
- Echinodorus tenellus
- Lilaeopsis brasiliensis
- Marsilea hirsuta
References
- https://www.aquasabi.com/aquascaping-wiki/plants/micranthemum-monte-carlo
- https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/Micranthemummonte-carlo(023TC)/4467
- https://www.advancedplantedtank.com/micranthemum-monte-carlo-care-guide.html
- https://www.aquariumcarebasics.com/plant-care/micranthemum-monte-carlo-care-guide/
