Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ – ADA Tissue Culture

Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ is one of the most popular foreground carpeting plants in aquascaping. Known for its small, round leaves and its ability to spread quickly, it forms a lush green carpet in aquariums, giving a natural and vibrant look to the tank. Its creeping growth habit makes it ideal for aquascapes, whether in high-tech setups with CO2 injection or in moderate-light, lower-tech environments with appropriate care.

This product comes in ADA Tissue Culture, ensuring a pest-free and algae-free plant, grown in sterile conditions. Tissue culture plants are a fantastic option for aquascapers looking for clean, healthy plants from the start.

Detailed Care Guide:

Tank Requirements:

• Lighting: Moderate to high lighting is recommended for optimal growth. High lighting will encourage a denser and faster-growing carpet, while lower lighting will cause the plant to grow more upwards and less compact.
• Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate is highly recommended. Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ is a root-feeding plant, meaning that it absorbs most of its nutrients through its roots. High-quality aquasoils or regular root tab supplementation in inert substrates will promote healthy growth.
• CO2: While CO2 injection is not absolutely necessary, it significantly enhances the plant’s growth, color, and ability to form a compact, healthy carpet. In high-tech tanks with CO2, ‘Monte Carlo’ grows more densely and quickly.
• Water Parameters:
  • Temperature: 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C)
  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water (3 – 10 dGH)

Tissue Culture Preparation and Planting:

1. Opening the Tissue Culture:
   • Open the ADA Tissue Culture container with care, as the plant is grown in a nutrient-rich gel.
2. Rinsing the Plant:
   • Gently remove the plant from the container and rinse it thoroughly in clean, lukewarm water to remove all of the gel. This step is crucial, as any leftover gel may cause water quality issues in your aquarium.
3. Dividing the Plant:
   • After rinsing, divide the plant into small portions. Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ can be separated into many tiny clusters, allowing you to cover more surface area in your aquarium and encourage even growth.
4. Planting:
   • Using aquascaping tweezers, carefully plant each small portion into the substrate. Make sure to bury the roots slightly, but leave the leaves above the substrate. Spread the portions evenly across the area you want to carpet for a fuller, more even spread.

Growth and Maintenance:

• Growth Rate: Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ is a moderately fast-growing plant, especially under high light and with CO2. It can form a lush, dense carpet over time and spread across the substrate.
• Trimming: Regular trimming will help the plant maintain its compact, low-growth form. Trimming also encourages horizontal growth and prevents the plant from growing vertically.
• Fertilization: Regular fertilization is important for healthy growth. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer rich in macro and micronutrients, especially iron. In addition, root tabs will provide essential nutrients to the plant’s root system if using an inert substrate.

Special Notes:

• Compatibility: Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ works well in most community tank setups and is compatible with shrimp, small fish, and peaceful tank inhabitants. It provides excellent cover for baby fish and shrimp and can help oxygenate the tank by producing plenty of oxygen during photosynthesis.
• Propagation: Propagation is simple with this plant. After trimming, replant the trimmed portions, and they will root in the substrate, continuing to grow and spread.

Summary:

Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ is a stunning, versatile carpeting plant perfect for creating lush green foregrounds in aquascapes. Its ability to form a dense carpet in both high-tech and low-tech setups makes it a favorite among aquascapers of all skill levels. With its small, round leaves and creeping growth pattern, ‘Monte Carlo’ adds an elegant touch to any tank, offering natural beauty and depth.

Packaged in ADA Tissue Culture, this plant is delivered in its healthiest, cleanest form, free from pests and algae. By following the tissue culture preparation steps, aquarists can ensure a successful planting experience and optimal growth from the start.

When provided with moderate to high lighting, a nutrient-rich substrate, and optional CO2 injection, Micranthemum ‘Monte Carlo’ will grow quickly into a beautiful, vibrant carpet, enhancing the overall look and feel of your aquarium.