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Riccia (Riccia fluitans)

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Riccia

Intermediate

Riccia fluitans

Floating liverwort often used submerged. Stunning appearance with oxygen bubbles attached. Can be the star of an aquascape.

Growing Difficulty
Intermediate
Temperature
20〜28℃
Size
1-3cm (thickness)

About

Riccia fluitans is a liverwort in the order Marchantiales, naturally distributed as a free-floating plant across temperate to tropical water bodies worldwide. Its use as a submerged foreground carpet plant was pioneered by Takashi Amano, who popularized the technique of tying it over rocks with fine mesh nets to keep it submerged. Under high light and pressurized CO2, photosynthesis generates spectacular pearl-like oxygen bubbles across the entire mat — one of the most iconic sights in the Nature Aquarium aesthetic. Fast-growing but challenging to maintain, the thallus tends to detach from netting and requires regular intervention. Stable water parameters and consistent algae management are prerequisites for long-term success. Its combination of breathtaking beauty and technical difficulty places it firmly in advanced aquascaping territory.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Basic Info

Origin

Worldwide, in temperate to tropical aquatic habitats

Size

1-3cm (thickness)

Temperature

20〜28℃

Growing Tips

Lighting

Strong light essential

CO2

Required (for bubble formation)

Fixing

Fix to rocks with net or fishing line

Trimming

Floats up — needs regular maintenance

Notes

High maintenance but first-class beauty

Beautiful bubblesFloating plantHigh lightAquascape star

Riccia FAQ

QWhat is the growing difficulty level for Riccia?
A

Intermediate. A variety suitable for intermediate growers. Requires some cultivation experience and knowledge of environment management. Pay careful attention to temperature and humidity control.

QWhat is the ideal temperature for Riccia?
A

The ideal temperature for Riccia is 20〜28℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

QHow large does Riccia get?
A

The mature size of Riccia is 1-3cm (thickness). This may vary slightly depending on cultivation environment and individual differences.

QWhat is the typical price for Riccia?
A

The price of Riccia varies significantly by variety, characteristics, size, and lineage. Please check ボタちょく's price guide for the latest market information.

Last updated: June 24, 2026

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BoTachoku Editorial Team

The classifications, regulations, and growing data on this page are created and verified based on the primary information database below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Riccia fluitans L.

Authority databases: GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: 環境省 特定外来生物等一覧(外来生物法) / CITES Appendix II 植物掲載分類群(科・属レベル)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.

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