Süsswassertang

Lomariopsis lineata

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Lomariopsidaceae

📍 Southeast Asia

Often mistaken for a moss, Süsswassertang (German for 'freshwater seaweed') is actually a fern prothallus — the juvenile phase of a fern. It produces small, bright green, tear-drop-shaped cells that cluster into irregular clumps or sheets. Grows slowly and does not need to be attached — it can float freely or be loosely placed on hardscape. Very popular in shrimp tanks and nano setups due to its low-maintenance nature and the intricate hiding spaces it creates for juvenile shrimp.

Tank Mates

Red Cherry Shrimp

Ideal companion; shrimp use the plant for grazing biofilm and shelter without damaging it

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Large shrimp that graze algae and detritus around the plant without uprooting it

excellent

Otocinclus

Small, peaceful algae eater that won't damage delicate fronds

good

Java Moss

Excellent companion plant; both create dense cover and thrive in low-light conditions

excellent

Dwarf Hairgrass

Complementary foreground plant that creates layered aquascaping with Süsswassertang

good

Emerald Dwarf Rasbora

Tiny, peaceful fish that won't uproot or damage the delicate plant structure

good

Common Diseases

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Plant becomes covered in green or brown algae, reducing light penetration and nutrient uptake

Treatment

Increase water changes, reduce light duration to 6-8 hours daily, add algae-eating shrimp or fish like Amano Shrimp or Otocinclus

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Slow or stunted growth, yellowing or pale coloration, tissue breakdown

Treatment

Dose liquid all-in-one fertilizer weekly, ensure adequate bioload from fish waste, or add macronutrient supplements

Decay and Melting

Symptoms

Plant tissue becomes mushy, discolored, or dissolves; foul odor may develop

Treatment

Improve water circulation with gentle flow, increase water change frequency, remove decaying portions, ensure adequate oxygen levels

Bacterial or Fungal Infection

Symptoms

White or gray fuzzy coating on fronds, visible rot, or slimy appearance

Treatment

Perform 50% water change, remove affected portions, increase aeration, avoid overcrowding, maintain stable water parameters

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Quick Facts

co2: Not required
light: Low to medium
max size: Clumps up to 5–10 cm (2–4 in)
placement: Foreground, surface, or floating
substrate: None — free-floating or loosely draped on hardscape
growth rate: Slow

Water it likes

ph: 6.0–7.5
notes: Thrives in shrimp tanks. Does not attach; simply place on hardscape or let float.
hardness: 0–10 dGH
temperature: 149–180°F (65–82°C)