Monosolenium tenerum

Description

Monosolenium tenerum, a captivating liverwort often recognized as Pellia Moss, has gained popularity in the freshwater aquarium hobby for its unique, moss-like appearance and relatively undemanding nature. This plant, with its dark green, branching thalli, offers a distinct texture and depth to aquatic layouts, creating lush, cushion-like foregrounds or midground accents. Unlike the similar-looking but floating Riccia, Pellia is heavier than water and will sink, making it easier to anchor in an aquascape.

Care

Care for Monosolenium tenerum is relatively straightforward. It thrives in low to medium light but will exhibit more compact growth in higher light conditions. CO2 supplementation is not required but will promote more robust and vibrant growth. It is highly adaptable to a wide range of water parameters, including temperatures from 15-28°C (59-82°F), a pH of 6.0-8.0, and soft to hard water. As it is a non-rooting plant, it should be attached to hardscape like driftwood or rocks using fishing line or aquarium-safe glue. While it can grow without extra fertilizers, liquid nutrient supplementation will result in healthier growth.

Propagation

Propagation is achieved simply through fragmentation. Break or cut off a piece of the plant’s thallus, and the new piece will grow into an independent colony. These fragments can be attached to new surfaces or left to settle in low-flow areas of the aquarium.

Trimming

Regular trimming is recommended to maintain the desired shape and prevent the plant from becoming overgrown. Due to its brittle texture, it can be easily trimmed with scissors. The trimmed pieces can be discarded or used for propagation.

Notes, Tips, and Considerations

• Handle with care, as its brittle texture means pieces can break off easily.
• Provides excellent cover for shrimp and small fish, which enjoy grazing on the biofilm that develops on its surface.
• Can be confused with Riccia fluitans and Süsswassertang (Lomariopsis cf. lineata), but can be distinguished by its sinking nature and the presence of a midrib.

Naturally Found

• Regions
  • Asia
    • Countries: China, Taiwan, India, Japan, Thailand
• Environment
  • Habitat: river
  • Water Type: freshwater
  • Water Depth: 0 – 0.1 m
  • Water Flow: slow, moderate
  • Light: low
  • Temperature: 5 – 30 °C
  • Humidity: high
  • Substrate: soil