SafePlants

Mayaca fluviatilis (Stream Bogmoss)

Mayaca fluviatilis, commonly known as Stream Bogmoss, is an aquatic plant popular in aquariums.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant features flexible stems and soft, narrow, needle-like leaves.

Considerations for Children

• This plant features flexible stems and soft, narrow, needle-like leaves.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Mayaca fluviatilis Aubl.
• Common Name: Stream Bogmoss
• Family: Mayacaceae (Bog-Moss Family)
• Synonyms:
  • Mayaca aubletii Michx.
  • Mayaca aubletii var. wrightii
  • Mayaca vandellii Schott & Endl.
  • Biaslia vandellii Roem.
  • Mayaca kunthii Seub.
  • Mayaca michauxii Schott & Endl.
  • Syena fluviatilis
  • Syena mayaca

Distribution and Habitat

• Native to South America and the Southern USA.
• Grows in wetlands, shallow freshwater ponds, streams, and drainage ditches.

Ecological Role

• In Queensland, Australia, Mayaca fluviatilis is considered a pest weed.
• It can form large submersed mats or grow on sandy shores.

Morphological Characteristics

• It's a bright green, frilly stem plant with flexible stems and soft, narrow, needle-like leaves.
• Classified as a forb/herb, a non-woody plant that isn't a grass.
• Grows to a size of 15-40cm.

Growth Habits

• Requires medium to high lighting conditions.
• Gains nutrients from both the water and the soil in which it is planted.

Quirky Facts

• This plant pearls brilliantly, meaning it produces visible bubbles of oxygen during photosynthesis.
• It's sometimes referred to as "pine tree" in New Zealand.

Further Information

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database: Provides information and a photo of Mayaca fluviatilis.
• Discover Life: Offers details about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution.