Riccia fluitans (Crystalwort)

Riccia fluitans (Crystalwort) is a liverwort traditionally used as a floating plant or tied to rocks and driftwood to create lush bright-green islands. Under strong CO2 and light it produces oxygen pearling — tiny bubbles rising from the surface in a stunning aquascape effect popularised by the Nature Aquarium style. Spreads quickly and is easy to thin by hand.

Float freely or anchor to hardscape with net or thread. High light and CO2 injection produces best pearling effect. pH 6.0–8.0, temperature 15–28°C, GH 1–20, KH 0–10. Very fast spreader — thin regularly to prevent light blocking submerged plants. Excellent fry and shrimp shelter. Low or no CO2 = slower growth and less pearling but still viable.