Overview of Salvinia rotundifolia auct. non Willd.
Salvinia rotundifolia auct. non Willd. is a floating aquatic plant species belonging to the fern family Salviniaceae. It is commonly known as round-leaved salvinia, water spangles, or small water moss. It is native to Central and South America, but it has spread to many other parts of the world, including North America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. This plant is popular in the aquarium trade, where it is used to decorate and provide natural habitat for aquatic animals.
Description and Appearance of Salvinia rotundifolia auct. non Willd.
Salvinia rotundifolia auct. non Willd. is a small floating plant with branching stems that can grow up to 2 cm in length. The stems bear small, circular, bright green leaves with thin hair-like roots hanging from the undersides. The leaves are approximately 1-2 cm wide and are covered with small, water-repellent hairs, which make them look like tiny water droplets. The plant spreads rapidly by producing small, green, triangular-shaped sporocarps that contain spores for reproduction. The plant can grow in both stagnant and slow-moving water, and it thrives in warm, sunny environments.
Uses of Salvinia rotundifolia auct. non Willd.
Salvinia rotundifolia auct. non Willd. is primarily used as a decorative plant in aquariums and water gardens. It provides natural cover and protection for fish and aquatic invertebrates while also absorbing excess nutrients that can cause algal blooms. The plant is also used in phytoremediation, where it is used to remove pollutants from contaminated water bodies. Additionally, it has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including wound healing, inflammation, and fever. However, its use in medicine is not well-studied, and caution should be taken when using it for these purposes.
Light Requirements
The plant Salvinia rotundifolia typically requires a moderate amount of light to thrive. It is capable of growing in both direct and indirect sunlight, but it should not be under direct sunlight for more than six hours per day. Too much sunlight can cause the plant to lose moisture and become dehydrated, while too little sunlight can negatively impact its growth and survival.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Salvinia rotundifolia is between 68-82°F (20-28°C). The plant prefers a warm and humid environment, with a minimum temperature of 50°F (10°C) required for survival. Any temperature below this range can cause stunted growth or even death.
Soil Requirements
Salvinia rotundifolia is a floating plant that does not require soil for growth. In fact, it can grow in a variety of aquatic environments such as ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. The plant can thrive in water with a pH range of 6.0-8.0, and a water hardness of 4-15 dGH. It is also important to note that the plant prefers still or slow-moving water with a low current.
Cultivation methods for Salvinia rotundifolia
Salvinia rotundifolia is a freshwater floating plant that is native to Central and South America. It is easy to grow and can be propagated through division. The plant can grow in either still or moving water, but it should be protected from strong currents to prevent it from being uprooted.
When planting, make sure the plants are spaced several inches apart to allow them to spread. The ideal water temperature for Salvinia rotundifolia is between 64°F and 86°F.
Watering needs of Salvinia rotundifolia
Salvinia rotundifolia is a floating plant providing natural shade to the aquarium, which can reduce water evaporation rate. Its water demand is low, and it is important not to let it dry out completely. It can absorb nutrients from the water, which can reduce the need for additional fertilization. Regular water changes are needed to keep the water clean and fresh for the plants to thrive.
Fertilization methods for Salvinia rotundifolia
Salvinia rotundifolia is not a heavy feeder, and it can obtain nutrients from the water. However, fertilizing the water with a balanced aquatic fertilizer can help the plants grow faster. The plants can take in nutrients from the water through their leaves and roots. Overfertilization can produce algae growth, which can be harmful to the plants.
Pruning Salvinia rotundifolia
Pruning Salvinia rotundifolia is simple. Remove any dead or damaged leaves as well as any yellowing leaves. This will help keep the plant looking healthy and will prevent it from taking up nutrients from the water that should be available for other plants. Overgrown plants can be divided and replanted to spread the plant further.
Propagation of Salvinia Rotundifolia
Salvinia Rotundifolia is a popular floating plant that is easy to propagate. It can be propagated through division and spores.
Propagation through Division
Division is a common method of propagating Salvinia Rotundifolia. This method involves separating the plant into smaller pieces and replanting them in new locations. To propagate Salvinia Rotundifolia using division, follow these steps:
- Remove the plant from the water and gently separate the plant clusters with your hands or scissors
- Plant the separated clusters in new locations in the same water body or in new water bodies
- Ensure that the new location has the same conditions as the previous one, such as water temperature, light, and PH levels
Propagation through Spores
Salvinia Rotundifolia can also be propagated through spores, though it's not a popular method. Here are the main steps to follow:
- Look for small masses of spores underneath Salvinia Rotundifolia leaves
- Carefully remove the spores and place them on the water surface
- The spores will start to develop into small plants
- Transplant the young plants to new locations
Using these propagation methods, Salvinia Rotundifolia can rapidly expand in different water bodies and is commonly used for aquascaping, aquariums, and ponds.
Disease Management
Salvinia rotundifolia is generally observed to be resilient to most diseases. However, it is still susceptible to some diseases, particularly in high humid and damp conditions. The fungal infection, namely Rhizoctonia solani, can lead to rotting of the plant's roots and lower stems. With the presence of some brown or black spots on the foliage, one can also notice the progression of the disease on the tissue midribs. Several fungicides are available in the market to manage this disease. Carbendazim, Benomyl, and Thiophanate-methyl are some broad-spectrum fungicides that can be employed to manage Rhizoctonia solani infections. To prevent infection, it is recommended to maintain a low moisture environment around the plant, ensuring it has an extended dry period and providing adequate soil drainage.
Pest Management
Salvinia rotundifolia is also susceptible to a few pests that can damage the plant, impacting overall growth and yield. Some common pests include beetles, leaf miners, and snails.
Beetles: These pests can cause considerable damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage. Employing insecticides such as Imidacloprid and Methomyl can be used to control beetle infestations. It is always important to follow the application instructions on the label and use protective equipment when applying pesticides.
Leaf miners: They are notorious for tunneling the plant causing the leaf to roll and damage its overall growth and development. The most effective way to control them is to apply insecticides like Abamectin, Diazinon, and Orthene. Frequent pruning of infected growth and removing debris can help restrict their spread.
Snails: Snails or slugs can consume most of the plant due to their voracious appetite. Preventive measures such as sprinkling diatomaceous earth on top of the soil can kill snails and provide control. Iron phosphate baits, although slower but still an effective option, can kill slugs and snails once they consume it.
