Mermaid's Wine Glass

Acetabularia acetabulum

Also known as Mermaid's Cup

Plantae›Chlorophyta›Ulvophyceae›Dasycladales›Polyphysaceae

📍 Mediterranean and Eastern Atlantic

One of the most extraordinary organisms in biology — a single giant cell shaped like a wine glass on a slender stalk. Each 'plant' is a single cell that can grow to 10 cm. Famous in cell biology research. In aquariums it anchors in sand and is a remarkable conversation piece. Prefers cooler, calcium-rich water.

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Quick Facts

note: single-celled organism — entire visible plant is one cell; calcified stalk
role: beneficial — display curiosity
placement: sandbed
lightLevel: medium
temperature: 59–72°F (15–22°C)

Water it likes

ph: 8.0–8.3
hardness: 8–18 dGH
temperature: 64–75°F (18–24°C)

Legality

No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.