Glossostigma elatinoides (Glosso)
The quintissential carpeting plant. Grows dense and fast under the proper conditions. This plant is arguable singlehandedly responsible for the contemporary aquascaping aesthetic from Nature Aquariums to Iwagumi.
It is easy to see why this plant caused a revolution in aquascaping. Glossostigma is easier, faster growing and spreads more consistently than many other similar carpeting options. If you want a lush, thick carpet plant that will fill your tank in mere weeks with lush pearling green leaves. Glosso is still the best way to go!
QUICK NOTES:
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Carpeting stem plant
Size: 2.5cm height, 5 - 10cm width
Position and Usage: Foreground, carpet
Growth Rate: Fast to Very fast
Lighting: 3/5-5/5
Water Conditions: pH 5-7, 22-33°C, soft to moderately hard water (adaptable)
CO2: Recommended
Propagation: Rapidly spreading runners
Special requirements: For maintaining the perfect carpet, regular nitrate, phosphate, iron and micronutrient supplementation is recommended for this fast growing, nutrient hungry plant. CO2 supplementation recommended especially for tall tanks. Shallower tanks with frequent water changes may not require additional CO2
Glossostigma elatinoides (Glosso)
Found in the bogs and swamps of Australia and New Zealand, Glossostigma elatinoides is a popular choice for the Japanese-inspired aquascape. It has small, tongue-shaped leaves and is bright green in coloration. One of the smallest aquarium plants, with adequate lighting and proper nutrient supplementation this plant will grow as a thick carpet across the substrate. Taller plants must be supervised to ensure that they do not shade G. elatinoides, as inadequate lighting will result in sparse, upward growth. CO2 supplementation will promote runner development. As it grows, G. elatinoides should be trimmed to keep it short and dense. This care will ensure that your plant is a lush addition to any tank, regardless of your aquascape’s size or design.