Origin and Common Names
Notothylas orbicularis (Schwein.) Sull. var. orbicularis is an aquatic plant commonly known as roundleaf notothylas. This species is a member of the Notothylaceae family and is native to the eastern United States, Canada, and parts of Central and South America.Appearance
Roundleaf notothylas is a small, non-vascular plant that typically grows in wet soil or shallow water. The plant's stem is thin and pale yellow in color, while its leaves are circular, flat, and translucent. The leaves are around 1-2 mm in diameter and have a distinct green or orange central region.Uses
While not commonly used for medicinal or culinary purposes, roundleaf notothylas is an interesting and unique plant for aquarium enthusiasts. The plant's small size and unique appearance make it a popular choice for aquascaping, and it is relatively easy to care for and propagate. Additionally, its ability to grow in wet soils or shallow water makes it a useful plant for water filtration and erosion control in natural habitats.Light Requirements
Notothylas orbicularis (Schwein.) Sull. var. orbicularis typically grows in shaded areas such as the forest floor. It is an understory plant that thrives in environments with little to moderate levels of light. As a result, it is sensitive to intense sunlight and does not grow well under direct sunlight. It requires about four hours of dappled or filtered sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for the growth of Notothylas orbicularis (Schwein.) Sull. var. orbicularis is moderate, ranging from 15 to 25°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 6°C and as high as 30°C, but it does not grow well under extreme temperature fluctuations. The plant is sensitive to frost and cannot survive in regions with prolonged frigid temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Notothylas orbicularis (Schwein.) Sull. var. orbicularis prefers well-drained soil with high water retention capacity. It thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter, with a pH range between 5.2 to 7.5. The plant is typically found growing in nutrient-rich soils such as humus, leaf litter, or compost soil. It requires a stable soil environment with optimal moisture content that is not too dry or too wet, and the roots should not be exposed to direct sunlight.
Cultivation Methods
Notothylas orbicularis (Schwein.) Sull. var. orbicularis is an aquatic plant that prefers a humid and shaded environment. It is usually grown in mossy or rocky areas near streams or ponds, which provide a suitable habitat for its growth. The plant can be cultivated in an aquarium or a terrarium with a moist substrate that mimics its natural habitat. In the case of aquarium cultivation, the water should be soft and acidic with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.
Watering Needs
The plant requires a constantly moist environment to thrive. It should never be allowed to dry out as it can lead to stunted growth or even death. For aquatic cultivation, the water level should be kept high enough to cover the plant. In the case of terrarium cultivation, the substrate should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Regular misting is also helpful in maintaining the required moisture level for the plant.
Fertilization
Notothylas orbicularis (Schwein.) Sull. var. orbicularis does not require frequent fertilization like other aquatic plants. However, a weak dose of liquid fertilizer can be added to the water once every four to six weeks. In the case of terrarium cultivation, slow-release fertilizer pellets can be mixed with the substrate at the time of planting. Overfeeding should be avoided as it can lead to algae growth and other issues.
Pruning
The plant does not require pruning as it does not have leaves or stems. However, it is important to remove any dead or decaying plant matter from the aquarium or terrarium to avoid toxic waste buildup. In the case of terrariums, any excess growth beyond the desired space can be trimmed away with sterilized scissors to prevent overcrowding. Care should be taken not to damage the main body of the plant during pruning.
Propagation of Notothylas orbicularis var. orbicularis
Notothylas orbicularis var. orbicularis is a freshwater aquatic plant that can be propagated through several different methods.
Vegetative Propagation
The plant can be propagated vegetatively by division. This requires separating the individual plantlets that have grown from the parent plant. Each of the new plantlets must have roots attached to them, and they should be replanted into separate pots or aquariums.
Cutting Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through cuttings. One should cut the healthy stems of the plant near the parent plant and keep them in freshwater at room temperature. A small number of cuttings may be successful in generating new plants.
Spore Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through spores. The capsules that contain the spores of Notothylas orbicularis var. orbicularis are present on the mature plants and are released into the water. These spores then grow into new plants. This method of propagation requires patience and careful tending, as it can take longer for plants to mature from spores.
Regardless of the method used, it is important to maintain the water and light requirements for the successful growth of Notothylas orbicularis var. orbicularis.
Disease Management for Notothylas orbicularis
The Notothylas orbicularis (Schwein.) Sull var. orbicularis is known for its susceptibility to fungal and bacterial infections, which can cause serious damage to the plant if not managed properly. The following are some common diseases that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves of the Notothylas orbicularis. Symptoms of this disease include brown or black spots with irregular borders on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves, prune affected branches, and use fungicidal sprays.
Bacterial Leaf Blight
Bacterial Leaf Blight is a bacterial infection that causes water-soaked spots on the leaves of the Notothylas orbicularis. The spots eventually turn brown and the leaves may wilt and die. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves, prune affected branches, and use bactericidal sprays.
Rust
Rust is another fungal disease that can affect this species of plant. Symptoms of this disease include orange or orange-red spots on the leaves. To manage rust, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves, prune affected branches, and use fungicidal sprays.
Pest Management for Notothylas orbicularis
There are several pests that may affect the Notothylas orbicularis, including insects and mites. Here are some common pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider Mites are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause damage to the leaves of the Notothylas orbicularis. Symptoms of this pest include tiny, yellow spots on the leaves, webbing, and leaf distortion. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves, prune affected branches, and use insecticidal sprays.
Scale Insects
Scale Insects are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the Notothylas orbicularis. Symptoms of this pest include yellowing and wilting of the leaves and yellow or brown spots on the stems. To manage scale insects, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves, prune affected branches, and use insecticidal sprays.
Thrips
Thrips are small, slender insects that feed on the sap of the Notothylas orbicularis. Symptoms of this pest include scars and deformities on the leaves as well as discoloration and distortion. To manage thrips, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected leaves, prune affected branches, and use insecticidal sprays.
