Salvinia cucullata

Origin: Southeast Asia
Usage: Floating, Algae Control
CO2: Low
Light: High
Care: Easy
Growth Form: Floating
Growth Rate: Fast
Length: 3” - 1’
Width: 2 - 3”
Temp: 65 - 89F

Salvinia cucullata, commonly known as "Asian Watermoss," is a unique floating fern native to the still, sunlit waters of tropical Asia. This rare and lesser-known species captivates aquarists with its distinctive hood-like, curled leaves—an adaptation reflected in its scientific name (derived from cucullus, meaning "hood" or "cone"). Under optimal conditions, including ample light, warm temperatures, and nutrient-rich water, it forms a dense, comb-like floating mat. The leaf surface is covered in fine, velvety hairs, creating a soft texture with a subtle blue-green hue. Even in less-than-ideal conditions, it adapts by developing flatter, smaller leaves that resemble Salvinia minima.

Thriving in temperatures above 68°F with strong lighting, Salvinia cucullata displays its characteristic curled leaves most prominently when provided with sufficient nutrients. A lack of nutrients can result in smaller, flatter new growth. Compared to other floating species like Salvinia minima and S. auriculata, its growth rate is more moderate. This fascinating plant is an excellent addition to open-top aquariums, paludariums, and ripariums, offering shelter for fish fry and aquatic invertebrates. Due to its Asian origin, it complements biotope aquariums designed for warm-water fish from the same region.

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