Marsilea Hirsuta Care Guide: Plantation, Size, Tankmates | 2024

Are you looking for an easy-to-care-for freshwater plant? Look no further than Marsilea Hirsuta! This unique aquatic plant is native to Australia and can grow in warm, tropical waters. This attractive plant is an excellent addition to any aquarium with its dark green color and small, round leaves.

This guide will provide everything you need to know about caring for your Marsilea Hirsuta, including information on its lighting, color form, origin, height, family, minimum tank size, growth rate, and water temperature and pH requirements.

Species Summary

Scientific Name:	Marsilea Hirsuta
Common Name:	Pepperwort, Bristly water-clover, Rough water-clover
Care Level:	Easy
Family:	Marsileaceae
Lighting:	Bright
Color Form:	Dark Green
Origin:	Australia
Height:	Up to 4 inches
Family:	Marsileaceae
Water Temperature:	68°-77°F
Water pH:	6.0-7.5
Minimum Tank Size:	10 gallons
Tank Set-Up:	Tropical freshwater
Growth Rate:	Slow

The Marsilea Hirsuta is a small aquatic plant that is native to Australia. It gets its common name, "hairy water clover," from the small, round leaves covered in tiny hairs. These leaves grow in clusters of four and range in size from 0.2 to 0.4 inches. The plant itself only reaches a height of 4 inches.

The Marsilea Hirsuta is a popular plant for beginner and experienced aquarium hobbyists due to its easy care requirements and attractive appearance.

To create the best environment for your Marsilea Hirsuta plant, your tank should be kept at a temperature of 68° to 77°F with a pH of 6.0-7.5. A 10-gallon aquarium is perfect for this plant and should be in bright light.

Your Marsilea Hirsuta plant can bring beauty and life to your freshwater aquarium with proper care!

Marsilea Hirsuta Appearance

If you're looking for an easy-to-care-for freshwater plant, look no further than the Marsilea Hirsuta! This unique aquatic plant is native to Australia and can grow in warm, tropical waters.

With its dark green color and small, round leaves, this exciting plant makes a great addition to any aquarium setting. The Marsilea Hirsuta has leaves covered in tiny hairs, which give the plant its common name, "hairy water clover."

The leaves grow in clusters of four. The Marsilea Hirsuta is a small, dark green aquatic plant with round leaves. With its easy care requirements and unique appearance, the Marsilea Hirsuta is an excellent choice for experienced and beginner aquarium enthusiasts.​

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Marsilea Hirsuta Origin And Distribution

The Marsilea Hirsuta is a small, dark green aquatic plant native to Australia. It can be found growing in warm, tropical waters along the coast of Australia and in its inland waterways. The Marsilea Hirsuta is popular among aquarium hobbyists due to its slow growth rate and unique appearance.

Marsilea Hirsuta Size And Growth Rate

The Marsilea Hirsuta only reaches a height of 4 inches and has leaves that are 0.2-0.4 inches in size. The plant's slow growth rate makes it a perfect choice for beginner and experienced aquarium hobbyists.

Terrariums And Paludariums

The Marsilea Hirsuta is an excellent plant for both terrariums and paludariums. Its small size and easy care requirements make it a perfect choice for these enclosed environments.

To create a thriving terrarium or paludarium, maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, and provide bright lighting and plenty of water for your Marsilea Hirsuta plant.

The Marsilea Hirsuta is also popular in terrariums and paludariums, where it can thrive in various conditions. Whether you are looking for an elegant freshwater plant or a unique specimen to add to your terrarium or paludarium, this is a great choice!

Marsilea Hirsuta Cost

The Marsilea Hirsuta is a popular plant among aquarium hobbyists and can be found at most pet stores that sell aquatic plants. The average cost of this plant is $5-$10.

Is It Easy To Care For?

The Marsilea Hirsuta is a relatively easy plant to care for. It tolerates various conditions and can thrive in fresh and brackish water environments. Provide plenty of bright light and clean water to maintain a healthy plant.

The Marsilea Hirsuta is also sensitive to chemicals. Be sure to use a gentle aquarium fertilizer and avoid harsh chemicals in your tank, with its easy care requirements and exciting appearance.

Marsilea Hirsuta Propagation

The Marsilea Hirsuta can be propagated by dividing the plant into smaller pieces.

• Using a sharp knife, Marsilea Hirsuta can be propagated by dividing the plant into smaller pieces.
• Each piece should have at least one leaf and a small root system.
• Once the plants have been divided, they can be planted in individual pots or containers and placed in your aquarium.
• Be sure to provide plenty of bright light and clean water for your newly propagated plants.

Marsilea Hirsuta Trimming And Pruning

The Marsilea Hirsuta can be trimmed and pruned to maintain a desired shape and size. To trim the Marsilea Hirsuta, use a sharp knife or scissors to remove any leaves that are browning or dying. Cut back the stems to the desired length to control the plant's growth.

To prune the Marsilea Hirsuta, cut back the stems to the desired length. This will allow you to maintain the plant's desired shape and size and help control its growth rate. Use sharp scissors or a knife when pruning the Marsilea Hirsuta, as blunt tools may damage the plant's delicate stems and leaves.​

Then, replant your trimmed plant in your aquarium or another water-based environment. Regular pruning and trimming ensure that your Marsilea Hirsuta looks its best at all times!​

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Marsilea Hirsuta Plantation

When planting the Marsilea Hirsuta in your aquarium, use a nutrient-rich substrate and provide plenty of bright light. This plant can be planted in gravel and sand substrates, pots, or containers.

To plant the Marsilea Hirsuta in gravel or sand, dig a small hole in the substrate and bury the plant's roots. Be sure to firm the substrate around the plant to secure it. Then, fill the aquarium with water and provide plenty of bright light.

To plant the Marsilea Hirsuta in a pot or container, fill the pot with a nutrient-rich substrate such as Aquatic Soil, Fluval Plant, and Shrimp Stratum. Be sure to add enough substrate to cover the plant's roots.

Then, place the pot in your aquarium and fill the aquarium with water. Provide plenty of bright light for your newly planted Marsilea Hirsuta.

Marsilea Hirsuta Care Guide

Here, we will share a complete care guide for Marsilea Hirsuta.

Marsilea Hirsuta Tank Size

The Marsilea Hirsuta can thrive in various tank sizes, from 10 gallons to larger tanks. For best results, be sure to provide plenty of bright light and clean water for your plant. The Marsilea Hirsuta will quickly become a beautiful addition to any freshwater or brackish water tank with proper care.​

Marsilea Hirsuta Tank Mates

The Marsilea Hirsuta can be kept with many different types of fish, snails, shrimp, crabs, and other aquatic creatures. Research and select tank mates compatible with your water conditions and the Marsilea Hirsuta. The friendly fishes are -

• Goldfish
• Guppies
• Tetras
• Barbs
• Catfish
• Mollies
• Bettas
• Corydoras catfish

Water Requirements

The water in the tank should be heated to the optimal temperature, and the pH should be 6.0-7.5 for optimal growth and health of the Marsilea Hirsuta. To maintain these conditions in your tank, you may need to perform frequent water changes or use an aquarium filter or other filtration system.

Be sure to research your plant's needs, as requirements may vary depending on water quality and temperature.!​

Water Temperature

The Marsilea Hirsuta prefers water that is 68°-77°F. You may need to use an aquarium heater or other temperature-regulating device to maintain these conditions in your tank.

Fertilizer Requirements

The Marsilea Hirsuta is a heavy feeder and will benefit from adding fertilizer to its environment. Be sure to use a fertilizer designed for aquatic plants, and follow the manufacturer's directions for best results.

Maintenance

The Marsilea Hirsuta is a low-maintenance plant that does not require much care. However, check the plant regularly and remove any dead or dying leaves as needed. In addition, you may want to trim the plant back occasionally to control its growth.

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Heater Requirements

The Marsilea Hirsuta prefers to be kept at a constant temperature, so it is essential to use an aquarium heater if your tank's water temperature tends to fluctuate. Follow the manufacturer's directions carefully when using an aquarium heater to ensure safety and optimal performance.​

The suggested heaters are:

• Aqueon Adjustable PRO Aquarium Heater
• Fluval E Series Heater
• Tetra HT Submersible Aquarium Heater
• Marineland Precision Submersible Heater

Filter Requirements

In addition to a consistent water temperature, the Marsilea Hirsuta requires good water quality for optimal growth and health. You will likely need an aquarium filter or other filtration system in your tank to achieve this.

Some recommended filters are:

• Fluval C4 Power Filter
• Marineland Penguin Power Filter
• Eheim Classic 2217 Canister Filter
• SunSun 304 External Canister Filter​

Lighting Requirements

To ensure optimal growth of the Marsilea Hirsuta, it is essential to provide the plant with bright lighting. This can be achieved using a combination of natural and artificial light sources, such as fluorescent or LED lights.

Some suitable light fixtures are:

• Current USA Satellite Freshwater LED Plus Light Fixture
• Fluval Plant Spectrum LED Light
• Aqua Illumination AI Prime HD Freshwater LED Light
• Marineland Reef Capable LED Light Fixture​

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Water Changes

To maintain optimal water quality and a healthy environment for your Marsilea Hirsuta, you must perform regular water changes as needed. The suggested frequency of water changes depends on several factors, including the size of your aquarium and the physical demands of your tank inhabitants.

However, generally speaking, you should aim for about 10-20% water changes per week. You can perform these water changes using a siphon or by draining some tank water and replacing it with fresh, dechlorinated water from your tap.​

Nitrite And Nitrate Levels

Nitrite and nitrate levels must be kept low in your tank to ensure the optimal health of the Marsilea Hirsuta. To do this, you should perform regular water tests using a quality test kit, such as API Freshwater Test Kit or Tetra Nitrite/Nitrate Water Test Kit.

If necessary, you can use a chemical solution or another method to help lower nitrite and nitrate levels in your tank. Options for reducing these harmful chemicals include using products like Tetra Nitrate/Nitrite Reducing Beads, API Aquarium Solutions Tap Water Conditioner, or Seachem Prime Water Conditioner.​

Oxygen Levels

The Marsilea Hirsuta requires oxygen-rich water to survive, so maintain a steady oxygen flow in your tank using an air pump or other device. Not only will this help ensure the health and well-being of your plant, but it will also keep your fish happy and healthy!​

Choosing A Location

When choosing a location for your Marsilea Hirsuta, it is essential to consider several factors. First, you must ensure the plant can access adequate light and water flow.

In addition, you should avoid placing your plant near other plants or equipment that can obstruct its growth or cause damage. Finally, be sure to choose a location that is within easy reach for you, as you will need to check on your plant and perform maintenance as needed frequently.​

Ammonia Levels

Ammonia levels must be kept low in your tank to ensure optimal health of the Marsilea Hirsuta. The preferred range is 0-0.25 ppm, so you should regularly test your tank water using a quality ammonia test kit and take the necessary steps to help maintain safe levels.

Options for reducing ammonia levels in your aquarium include using products like Seachem Stability Aquarium Stabilizer, API Quick Start Water Conditioner, etc.

Gravel Vacuuming

To keep your Marsilea Hirsuta healthy, regularly removing excess debris and waste from your tank is essential. This can be done using a gravel vacuum or other similar device. Be sure to vacuum the gravel in areas where the plant is growing to avoid damaging its roots.​

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Marsilea Hirsuta Plant diseases

• Black spots on leaves: This is caused by a fungal infection and can be treated with a fungicide.
• Brown or yellow leaves: This is usually caused by poor water quality or insufficient lighting. Be sure to test your water quality regularly and provide adequate lighting for your plant.
• Curling or wilting leaves: This could be caused by several factors, including insufficient lighting, poor water quality, or pests. Scrutinize your plant to determine the cause and take the necessary steps to correct it.
• Drooping leaves: This is usually caused by too much water in the soil or insufficient lighting. Be sure to drain your plant well and provide adequate lighting.
• The overall decline in health: This could be caused by several factors, including pests, disease, or poor water quality. Monitor your plant carefully and take steps as needed to correct any problems.
• Root Rot: This is a severe problem that several factors, including poor water quality, excessive watering, or insufficient lighting, can cause. If you suspect your plant has root rot, it is essential to correct the problem immediately.
• Pests: Several pests can affect the Marsilea Hirsuta, including aphids, mealybugs, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause serious damage to your plant, so it is important to take steps to prevent them from infesting your tank.

Some options for preventing pests include using products like Seachem Metallophos Pest Control Media, API Pest Control Fungus Guard, etc.

• Wilting: This could be a sign of overwatering or overfeeding. Monitor your plant carefully and avoid giving it too much water or food.
• Yellowing leaves: This could also be caused by overwatering or overfeeding, but it can also be caused by nutrient deficiency. Be sure to monitor your plant carefully and make any adjustments as needed.
• The overall decline in health: If your Marsilea Hirsuta shows signs of an overall decline in health, it may be a sign that something else is wrong. Consult an expert or perform regular testing and maintenance on your tank to help keep your plant healthy and thriving.​

Medication And Treatment For Plant Diseases

• Provide optimal water quality: To prevent disease and improve your plant's health, it is important to provide optimal water quality for your Marsilea Hirsuta. This means testing your tank water regularly, using the appropriate filtration system(s), ensuring proper pH levels, etc.
• Use a fungicide: If you suspect your plant has a fungal infection, you can treat it. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and prevent the fungus from spreading to other plants in your tank.
• Use an insecticide: If you suspect that your plant has pests, you can treat it with an insecticide. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and take steps to prevent other pests from infesting your tank.
• Remove affected leaves: If you notice damaged or dying leaves on your plant, it is important to remove them right away. This can help prevent disease or pests from spreading to other parts of your plant.
• Perform regular maintenance: To keep your Marsilea Hirsuta healthy and free from disease, it is important to perform regular maintenance on your tank. This includes cleaning the glass, vacuuming the gravel, changing the water, etc.
• Consult with an expert: If you are having trouble keeping your plant healthy, consulting with an expert or a plant specialist may be helpful. They can offer valuable advice, tips, and guidance to help you provide the best care possible for your Marsilea Hirsuta.​
• Use medicines: There are a number of medicines and treatments that can be used to help treat plant diseases. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and take steps to prevent the disease from spreading to other plants in your tank.

Some options for treating plant diseases include using products like Seachem GSA, API Leaf Zone Fertilizer, etc.

Prevention

The best way to prevent plant diseases is to maintain a clean and healthy environment for your plants. Regularly perform tank maintenance, including gravel vacuuming and filter changes.

Additionally, be sure to test your water quality regularly and take steps to correct any problems. If you notice any signs of disease, immediately prevent it from spreading. Finally, consult an expert or plant specialist if you are having trouble keeping your Marsilea Hirsuta healthy.​

Advantages Of Having Marsilea Hirsuta In Your Tank

• Accessible To Care: Relatively easy plant to care for, making it an excellent choice for beginner aquarists.
• Slow Growth Rate: It has a slow growth rate, so it won't take over your tank.
• Attractive Appearance: It has dark green, round leaves, making it a lovely addition to any tank.
• Adds Oxygen: It can absorb excess carbon dioxide and release oxygen into the water, helping improve water quality in your tank.
• Enhances The Appearance Of Other Plants: The dark green leaves can help enhance the appearance of other plants in your tank.
• Helps Reduce Algae Growth: It can help reduce algae growth in your tank by shading out algae from the light.
• Provides hiding places for fish: It provides a great place for fish to hide and feel secure.
• Natural filtration: It can help improve water quality in your tank by acting as a natural filter.
• Easy to propagate: It is easy to propagate, so you can easily create more plants for your tank.
• Can tolerate a wide range of water conditions: This very versatile plant can tolerate a wide range of water conditions.

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Disadvantages Of Having Marsilea Hirsuta In Your Tank

• May uproot other plants: It has a robust root system that can sometimes uproot other plants in your tank.
• Can be difficult to remove: Once established, it can be difficult to remove from your tank.
• Can be susceptible to disease: It can be susceptible to disease if it is not properly cared for.
• Slow growth rate: It has a slow growth rate, so it may take some time for your plant to reach its full size.
• Requires bright lighting: It requires bright lighting to thrive.
• May need regular trimming: It may need regular trimming to keep it from taking over your tank.
• Can be sensitive to changes in water conditions: It can be sensitive to changes in water conditions, so it is important to maintain stable water parameters.

Conclusion

Marsilea Hirsuta is a beautiful, easy-to-care-for plant that can be a great addition to any aquarium. Although it has a slow growth rate, Marsilea Hirsuta can reach up to 4 inches in height and spread out to fill empty spaces in your tank.

This plant prefers bright lighting and a neutral to slightly acidic pH and can be sensitive to changes in water conditions. Marsilea Hirsuta is easy to propagate and can help reduce algae growth in your tank.

I hope you enjoy reading this article.