Description
A very special rarity, belonging to the diverse family of the Filmy Ferns. This tiny, moss-like fern was found in southwestern India on rocks along a stream. It is not yet identified with certainty and likely belongs to the species Crepidomanes malabaricum. In its natural habitat it is flooded during the rainy period only, however it can be grown permanently submerged in aquariums. This fern has tender, dark green, transparent leaves on a thin, creeping rhizome.
It is recommendable to fix Crepidomanes cf. malabaricum on stone or wood, you may also leave the plant on the pad and place it in the aquarium foreground. This fern grows very slowly, forming a carpet by and by. It is rootless but develops dark, hair-like rhizoids on the rhizome which help it adhere to the substrate. This Crepidomanes doesn't need much light, but a good CO2 and nutrient supply, soft to medium hard water and a good water current are beneficial.
Characteristic
Miniature fern from India
New to the aquarium hobby
Very slow grower
Easy plant for medium lighting
Excellent epiphyte for delicate layouts
Category
Foreground
Carbon Dioxide
need
