1. Introduction
【Child】Professor, I’ve been reading about the wondrous Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and it makes me wonder, are there similar gardens we can create in our very own aquariums?
【Professor】Ah, an insightful question indeed! Yes, my young friend, we can create our own marvelous underwater hanging gardens right in our aquariums with the help of aquatic plants. Particularly, let me introduce you to the Microsorum Tropica, a beautiful and versatile aquatic plant that will certainly inspire your passion for aquatic gardening. In this discussion, we shall explore its characteristics, cultivation needs, precautions, and its allure in aquarium layouts.
2. Characteristics
【Child】What makes the Microsorum Tropica so unique that it’s like having our own Hanging Gardens in miniature forms?
【Professor】 A wonderful analogy, my young friend! The Microsorum Tropica, or as it’s commonly known, the Tropica Java Fern, is a truly captivating aquatic plant. It originates from Southeast Asia and features dark green, narrow leaves shaped like lances, with ruffled margins that evoke images of elegant tapestries. Growing slowly but steadily, this plant is highly adaptable to a range of aquarium sizes and layouts.
You can imagine the Microsorum Tropica as charming ballerinas performing in various spots within your underwater theater, be it in the foreground, midground, or background. Their maximum plant figure depends on their planting position, but in grand performances, they can reach heights of up to 15 inches!
3. Cultivation
【Child】I’m a newbie at aquatic gardening, Professor. Do you think I could take care of Microsorum Tropica, or should I be more experienced like a wise old alchemist from a medieval fantasy?
【Professor】Fear not, young apprentice! The Microsorum Tropica is quite a beginner-friendly aquatic plant. It’s highly adaptable and can tolerate a range of lighting conditions, even thriving in low-light environments reminiscent of enchanted forests shrouded in mystery.
When it comes to water parameters, the Tropica Java Fern is quite the resilient aquatic creature. It can handle a pH range of 6 to 7.5, a general water hardness (GH) of 3 to 30 dH, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 3 to 12 dH without any magical potions! As for temperature, it prefers waters between 68°F and 82°F, and it’s not too demanding about the type of substrate used.
Fret not about fertilization either, for the Microsorum Tropica primarily absorbs nutrients through its rhizomes rather than roots. Just attach it to rocks, driftwood, or other decorations in your aquatic sanctuary using thread or rubber bands, and watch it flourish!
Propagation-wise, have no fears of summoning imbued spirits from the depths! It’s a rather simple process, as daughter plants will sprout from the mother plant’s leaves, both underwater and above water. Just trim them once they have grown some roots and plant them elsewhere in your aquatic realm.
4. Precautions
【Child】Are there any potential sea monsters – metaphorically speaking of course – that we need to be cautious about when growing Microsorum Tropica?
【Professor】Indeed, young adventurer, every magical quest has its challenges. First, ensure the Microsorum Tropica isn’t buried in the substrate, or it may suffocate and rot like a tragic tale of lost treasure.
Furthermore, while most aquatic inhabitants are peaceful neighbors with the Tropica Java Fern, some plant-eating fish could pose a threat. Monitor their interactions and intervene if necessary to maintain the harmony of your underwater kingdom.
5. Summary
【Child】So, in the end, the Microsorum Tropica could be our key to unlocking the enchanting Hanging Gardens of Babylon in the realm of aquariums?
【Professor】Indeed, my wise young friend! The Microsorum Tropica is an extraordinary aquatic plant that offers aesthetic appeal and versatility for aquarium gardeners of all experience levels. It’s adaptable and resilient, making it easy to care for, while its potential in various layouts will undoubtedly unleash your creativity. By acknowledging its characteristics, cultivation needs, and precautions, you can nurture this glorious plant and revel in the delight of your own underwater hanging gardens!