Fringed heartwort is the only species in its genus: a small floating liverwort of ponds and quiet waters, where it can form wide floating colonies. The usual aquatic form is a broad, heart-shaped green thallus with long, fine purple scales hanging from the underside like a fringe. A land form also exists, growing as small rosettes about 2.5–3.5 cm across on wet mud (the maximum size given). In aquaria it is grown as an unusual floating plant for calm, open surfaces, where it gives shade and fry cover. It tolerates a wide temperature range, so it suits unheated tanks and ponds as well as tropical tanks. It can be swamped by duckweed or algae. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources. Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ricciocarpos); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.
Breeding
Spreads by the thallus forking and breaking apart; simply divide clumps. Spore-bearing plants are rare.
Compatibility and tank mates
Goldfish and many large fish eat floating plants. Ideal for shrimp, bettas, livebearers and fry. Suits temperate and tropical set-ups.
Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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Items are sold by auction, buy it now or classified advert, by hobbyist and business sellers in the UK.
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Live fish and other vertebrates must be sent by specialist live-animal couriers (for example APC Overnight or DX Express), never by Royal Mail. Some invertebrates and plants may go by Royal Mail Special Delivery or 1st Class within its rules.
Banned and invasive species (for example those on the GB invasive species lists) cannot be listed, and sellers must meet the site’s animal welfare standards.
Members must be 16 or over to buy (16 and 17-year-olds with a parent or guardian’s agreement); sellers must be 18 or over.
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