Stoffels Micranthemum glomeratum ( micranthemoides )

The Micranthemum glomeratum, commonly known as Micranthemum Micranthemoides or Baby Tears, is a popular and versatile aquatic plant known for its small, round, vibrant green leaves. This plant is perfect for creating a lush, bushy foreground or midground in aquariums. It has a delicate appearance but is surprisingly hardy and easy to care for, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. With proper care, it can grow into a beautiful, dense carpet that adds natural beauty and contrast to aquascapes.

Key Features:

• Small, Round Leaves: Micranthemum glomeratum features tiny, round leaves that grow densely, creating a bright green, lush look in the aquarium.
• Versatile Growth Habit: This plant can be used for carpeting in the foreground or for creating a bushy effect in the midground, depending on trimming and growth conditions.
• Moderate Growth Rate: It grows at a moderate pace, allowing for easy maintenance, while still providing enough growth to propagate and shape the aquascape.
• Easy to Care For: Micranthemum glomeratum is relatively easy to care for and grows well under a variety of conditions, making it ideal for aquarists at all skill levels.

Care Requirements:

• Lighting: Micranthemum glomeratum requires medium to high lighting to grow well and maintain its dense, compact form. Bright light will encourage the plant to grow more densely, which is essential for creating a lush carpet effect.
• CO2: CO2 supplementation is highly beneficial for this plant, promoting faster growth, healthier leaves, and more compact growth. In high-light setups, CO2 is particularly important to keep the plant looking its best.
• Water Parameters: This plant is adaptable and grows well in a pH range of 6.0-7.5 and temperatures between 20-28°C. Regular fertilization with micronutrients will help the plant thrive, especially in nutrient-poor environments.
• Trimming: Regular trimming is necessary to keep the plant low and bushy, especially when used as a carpet. Trim back the tops of the stems to promote horizontal growth and maintain an even, compact look.

Planting Tips:

• Plant Micranthemum glomeratum in small clumps, spaced a few centimeters apart, to encourage even spread across the substrate. Over time, the plant will grow and fill in the gaps, creating a dense, cohesive carpet.
• A nutrient-rich substrate is recommended to support healthy root growth. Supplementing with root tabs or liquid fertilizers can further enhance growth.
• To propagate, simply trim the stems and replant the cuttings. The cuttings will readily take root and continue growing, allowing for easy propagation and expansion of the plant within the aquarium.