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Description
Riccia Crystallina, also known as crystalwort, is a small floating aquatic plant that belongs to the liverwort family. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and is commonly found in slow-moving waters such as ponds, rivers, and streams. Riccia Crystallina is a popular choice for aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Marchantiophyta |
| Class | Jungermanniopsida |
| Order | Pelliales |
| Family | Ricciaceae |
| Genus | Riccia |
Appearance
Riccia Crystallina is a small, delicate plant that forms dense mats on the water’s surface. It has a bright green color and a unique crystal-like appearance due to the presence of air pockets within the plant’s thallus. Riccia Crystallina can grow up to 5cm in length and has a branching, ribbon-like structure.
Care Guide
Riccia Crystallina is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarium enthusiasts. Here are some tips on how to care for Riccia Crystallina:- Water: Riccia Crystallina prefers clean, fresh water with a pH range between 6.0 and 8.0. It can tolerate a wide range of water hardness levels, but soft to moderately hard water is ideal.- Fertilization: Riccia Crystallina does not require fertilization but can benefit from the addition of CO2 and liquid fertilizers.- Soil: Riccia Crystallina does not have roots and can be left to float freely in the aquarium or tied to rocks or driftwood.- Sunlight: Riccia Crystallina prefers moderate to high levels of light but can tolerate lower levels.- Hardiness Zones: Riccia Crystallina can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is suitable for both tropical and cold-water aquariums.
Common Pests & Diseases
Riccia Crystallina is generally resistant to pests and diseases but can be susceptible to algae growth if light levels are too high. Regular water changes and proper filtration can help prevent algae growth.
Habitat
Riccia Crystallina is native to Europe, Asia, and North America and can be found in slow-moving waters such as ponds, rivers, and streams. It prefers clean, fresh water with moderate to high levels of light.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Riccia Crystallina a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Riccia Crystallina is a relatively easy plant to care for and is suitable for beginners.Q: Can Riccia Crystallina be kept in cold-water aquariums?
A: Yes, Riccia Crystallina can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is suitable for both tropical and cold-water aquariums.Q: Can Riccia Crystallina be grown in soil?
A: No, Riccia Crystallina does not have roots and can be left to float freely in the aquarium or tied to rocks or driftwood.Q: How often should I fertilize Riccia Crystallina?
A: Riccia Crystallina does not require fertilization but can benefit from the addition of CO2 and liquid fertilizers.
Related Plants
– Riccia Fluitans- Riccia Natans- Pellia Endiviifolia- Fissidens Fontanus
References
– https://www.aquariumcarebasics.com/aquatic-plants/crystalwort-riccia-crystallina/- https://www.thesprucepets.com/riccia-crystallina-profile-5071387- https://www.aquariumcoop.com/blogs/aquarium/riccia-crystallina-care-requirements-and-growth-tips
