Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Plant profile

Placement

Epiphyte

This algae is best used as a unique accent piece attached to driftwood, stones, or filter sponge elements in the midground or foreground. Because of its dark red to purplish coloration, it provides a stunning contrast against bright green mosses and plants. It prefers moderate to low light; intense direct lighting can cause it to bleach or become overgrown with green algae.

Botanical form

Algae

It has an incredibly distinct morphology, forming flattened, branching ribbons that lack true stems or leaves. The thallus (body) is usually a deep, striking burgundy or brownish-red color, with a semi-translucent, delicate texture. It closely resembles miniature terrestrial liverworts but is purely aquatic.

Growth

Medium

Its growth rate is remarkably slow, even under optimal conditions with CO2 injection. It slowly creeps and expands over its chosen surface over a period of many months. This slow growth makes it incredibly low-maintenance, requiring almost no trimming unless it spreads to unwanted areas.

Substrate

None

Being an algae rather than a rooted vascular plant, it completely bypasses the need for any specific substrate. It attaches itself to hard surfaces using microscopic holdfasts. Therefore, it should never be buried in soil or sand, as the covered portions will quickly rot and die.

Column fertilization

Recommended

Water column fertilization should be kept to an absolute minimum to maintain a lean environment. Occasional, very light dosing of a trace element mix is sufficient to keep its color rich and dark. The primary goal of fertilization management here is to prevent the growth of competitive green or brush algae.

Root fertilization

None

Root fertilization is entirely irrelevant for this species as it lacks any root structure whatsoever. It cannot utilize nutrients buried in the substrate. All focus should be placed on maintaining clean, slightly lean water column conditions.

Trimming

Occasional

Trimming is straightforward; simply cut the stems or leaves to the desired length. Regular pruning encourages bushier, denser growth and prevents the plant from taking over the tank. Replant the healthy trimmings if you wish to expand its footprint.

Propagation

Cuttings

Propagation is straightforward through fragmentation. You simply tear a piece of the algae mat away from the main clump and reattach it to a new piece of hardscape. You can use cotton thread or cyanoacrylate superglue to hold the new piece in place until its holdfasts naturally secure it.

Sensitivity

Moderate

Generally robust but can melt if water parameters swing drastically. It prefers stable conditions and clean water with good flow. Algae can be an issue if organic waste is allowed to accumulate on its delicate leaves.

Layout role

Foreground, Midground, Epiphyte

Excellent for creating natural-looking thickets or adding a touch of wildness to the aquascape. It bridges the gap between different plant groups beautifully. Its unique texture provides a great contrast to broad-leaved plants.