Monosolenium tenerum 'Pellia'

Monosolenium tenerum, commonly sold as 'Pellia' in the aquarium hobby (though true Pellia is a separate genus), is a true liverwort that produces flat, thalloid, branching, bright-to-mid-green pads that spread across surfaces or rest loosely on the substrate. The texture is soft and almost rubbery, with a distinctive lobe-like growth pattern. It is native to shaded, humid environments in Asia and East Africa and is entirely submerged in its aquatic form.

This liverwort is extremely popular for shrimp tanks and planted aquariums, where its dense mat provides shelter for fry, grazing surfaces for shrimp, and a naturalistic aesthetic. It grows without CO2 at a modest rate, but responds well to supplemental nutrients and moderate light. It is fragile and tends to break apart in strong flow; gentle to moderate water movement is preferred. Regular division of dense mats prevents deterioration in the centre and encourages fresh green growth at the margins.

Light: Low to medium; bright light promotes faster growth but can cause algae in the dense mat interior. CO2: Not required; moderate CO2 levels improve growth speed and overall thallus quality. Fertilisation: Monthly liquid micronutrient dosing; the liverwort absorbs nutrients directly through its thallus surface. Placement: Rest on substrate or attach loosely to rocks or wood; keep in areas of gentle flow to prevent fragmentation. Propagation: Divide the thalloid mat into sections and distribute to new positions; adheres naturally over time.