Hemianthus callitrichoides var. cuba- Hemianthus callitrichoides var. cuba distribution
Family: Plantaginaceae;
Genus: Micranthemum (formerly Hemianthus);
Species and synonyms: Dwarf Baby Tears (Micranthemum callitrichoides, Hemianthus callitrichoides, Dwarf Baby Tears).
GBIF:
Dwarf Baby Tears (lat. Micranthemum callitrichoides) is a species of miniature aquatic plant from the family Plantaginaceae. One of the smallest aquarium plants in the world, it has become iconic in aquascaping due to its ability to create a dense green carpet in the foreground.
Distribution and history. The plant originates from the island of Cuba, where it was discovered by Holger Windeløv, founder of Tropica, in a small river with a strong current. The plants grew in large colonies, forming a dense carpet over the river stones.
Special demanding care requirements. Dwarf Baby Tears is one of the most demanding aquarium plants, and successful cultivation requires experience and specialized equipment. Optimal water parameters: temperature 18–26°C, pH 5.0–8.0, hardness from very soft to hard (no more than 15 dGH). For good growth, very bright lighting (from 0.7 W/L) and mandatory CO₂ injection (concentration of 15–25 mg/L) are required.
Planting and maintenance. Dwarf Baby Tears is grown in fine-grained substrate (fraction 2–3 mm). There are two planting methods: individual planting (each shoot is planted with tweezers at intervals of about 1 cm) and group planting (the mat is divided into parts and planted in holes at intervals of up to 2 cm). The plant is extremely sensitive to nutrient deficiency, especially iron, so regular application of liquid mineral fertilizers is required. Weekly water changes (20%) and regular trimming to maintain the carpet height at no more than 2 cm are essential. Otherwise, the lower layers will start to rot and the entire lawn may float up.
Propagation. In aquarium conditions, Dwarf Baby Tears propagates vegetatively, spreading through new shoots and filling the space between planted clumps.
Use in aquascaping. Thanks to its tiny leaves (only 1-2 mm in diameter), Dwarf Baby Tears is indispensable for creating a "green lawn" in aquascaping, and is especially popular in nano-aquariums. When keeping this plant, it is advisable to avoid bottom-dwelling fish such as corydoras and bristlenose plecos, which can damage the delicate carpet. The best tankmates are small schooling fish and shrimp, such as Amano shrimp, which help combat filamentous algae.