Tropica 1-2 Grow Riccia fluitans Riccia fluitans is a classic and highly versatile aquarium plant, made famous in modern aquascaping through the work of Takashi Amano. Traditionally a floating liverwort, it has become a staple in planted tanks thanks to its bright green colour, fine texture, and ability to create...
Riccia fluitans is a classic and highly versatile aquarium plant, made famous in modern aquascaping through the work of Takashi Amano. Traditionally a floating liverwort, it has become a staple in planted tanks thanks to its bright green colour, fine texture, and ability to create stunning carpet or accent effects when grown submerged.
Appearance
Riccia forms dense, bright green clusters made up of fine, delicate branching strands. When grown underwater, it creates a fresh, vibrant cushion-like texture that adds a soft, natural feel to the aquascape. Under strong lighting and healthy conditions, it often produces tiny oxygen bubbles on its surface, enhancing its visual appeal.
Aquascaping Use
Although naturally floating, Riccia fluitans is most commonly used submerged in aquascaping. It is typically tied to stones or driftwood using fishing line or mesh, where it forms a low, compact carpet or decorative mound. Regular trimming is essential, as it naturally grows upwards toward the surface and can quickly lose its shape if left unmanaged.
Care & Requirements
Difficulty: Moderate
Growth Rate: Fast
Height: 1–3 cm (when maintained submerged)
Lighting: Medium to high
CO₂: Strongly recommended
Riccia thrives in stable, nutrient-rich environments with good lighting and CO₂ injection. Under optimal conditions, it grows densely and produces oxygen bubbles that enhance its aesthetic “pearling” effect.
Growth & Maintenance
Frequent trimming is required to maintain a compact form and prevent excessive upward growth. Trimmings can be reused by reattaching them to hardscape, allowing for easy expansion across the aquascape.
When left floating, Riccia also provides excellent cover for fry and small aquatic life, offering shelter and grazing surfaces within the aquarium.
Why Choose Riccia fluitans?
Iconic aquascaping plant with Amano heritage
Bright, dense green carpet or cushion effect
Produces oxygen bubbles under ideal conditions
Extremely versatile for creative hardscape work
Riccia fluitans is a timeless aquascaping plant that transforms simple layouts into vibrant, detailed underwater landscapes with its unique texture and dynamic growth.
