Riccia Tissue Culture

Introduction

Riccia is a fascinating aquatic plant commonly used in aquascaping for its unique texture and vibrant green color. As a tissue culture plant, it comes in a clean, disease-free state, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Origin

Riccia is found in various parts of the world, particularly in North America, Europe, and Asia, where it grows in moist, shallow waters, marshes, and even on rocks.

Scientific Name

The scientific name for this plant is Riccia fluitans.

Lighting Requirements

Riccia thrives in moderate to high lighting conditions. Providing 8 to 12 hours of light per day encourages robust growth and vibrant coloration. Insufficient light may lead to weaker growth and a decline in health.

Care Level

With a care level of 3 on a scale of 1 to 10, Riccia is relatively easy to care for, making it suitable for aquarists at all experience levels.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C)
• pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
• GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 8 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 5 dKH

Placement

Riccia can be used in a variety of placements within the aquarium. It works well as a floating plant or can be anchored to rocks and driftwood. Its ability to create a lush, carpet-like effect makes it perfect for the foreground or as a floating mat.

Growth Rate

Riccia has a moderate growth rate, and with optimal conditions, it can spread quickly, creating dense mats of greenery that enhance the aquascape.

CO2 and Fertiliser

• CO2 Supplementation: While Riccia can grow without CO2, adding it can significantly boost growth and overall health.
• Fertilizer: Regular use of liquid fertilizers will support growth, especially in nutrient-poor substrates.

Potential Problems

• Algae Growth: Riccia can attract algae if conditions are not optimal. Regular maintenance and balancing light levels can help prevent this.
• Browning: Poor water quality or insufficient nutrients can cause Riccia to turn brown or disintegrate.

Compatible Fishes

Riccia is compatible with a variety of peaceful fish species, including:

• Tetras
• Guppies
• Rasboras
• Betta Fish
• Shrimp (e.g., Amano Shrimp, Cherry Shrimp)

Other Suitable Plants

To enhance the beauty of your aquascape, consider pairing Riccia with:

• Bacopa 
• Java Fern
• Anubias
• Cryptocoryne species

Tropical or Cold Water?

Riccia is adaptable and thrives in tropical water conditions, preferring a temperature range of 68°F to 78°F (20°C to 26°C).

What Fish Can Eat It?

While most fish do not typically consume Riccia, some herbivorous species may nibble on it. Its dense growth usually deters significant eating.

A Fun Fact

Riccia is often used in aquascaping competitions to create lush green carpets and floating mats. Its ability to thrive both submerged and emersed makes it a versatile choice for aquarists looking to add dimension and greenery to their setups. Plus, it can help improve water quality by absorbing excess nutrients!