Monosolenium tenerum

Monosolenium tenerum — commonly but incorrectly sold in the hobby as 'Pellia' — is a thallose liverwort producing broad, flat, undivided to slightly lobed bright-green thalli that spread loosely across the substrate, hardscape, or float at the surface. It is a more substantial, bolder-textured plant than Riccardia and can cover significant areas in low-tech tanks without difficulty.

M. tenerum is one of the more forgiving liverworts: it grows without CO2 supplementation, tolerates moderate water hardness, and manages well in low light. It does not require anchoring — it will simply rest on surfaces and hold itself in place with natural contact. In shrimp tanks and breeding setups it is especially valued as a loose, free-form shelter plant that can be arranged easily.

The plant is brittle and breaks apart easily when handled, which makes initial setup straightforward — simply break into pieces and distribute across the desired area. Larger pieces will remain whole while smaller fragments may float initially before settling.

Light: Low; one of the most shade-tolerant aquatic plants available — 10–30 µmol PAR is sufficient. CO2: Not required; the plant grows reliably without supplemental CO2. Fertilisation: Minimal — occasional liquid micronutrient dosing is sufficient; the plant is not a heavy feeder. Placement: Rest loosely on substrate, stones, or wood; does not require anchoring — ideal for shrimp and breeding tanks. Propagation: Break the fragile thallus into pieces and distribute; each fragment establishes independently.