Lilaeopsis mauritiana - Tissue Culture

Lilaeopsis mauritiana: The Narrow Leaf Micro Sword

Lilaeopsis mauritiana, commonly known as Mauritius Micro Sword or Narrow Leaf Micro Sword, is an endemic aquatic plant species native to the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean. Highly sought after by aquascapers, this plant/tissue culture is valued for its ability to create a stunning, fine-textured, grass-like carpet or "lawn" in the freshwater aquarium.

This species is distinct from other Micro Swords (like L.brasiliensis) due to its noticeably narrower, more delicate leaves, which are hollow and round in cross-section. Its compact, low-growing habit makes it ideal for the foreground of any planted tank, especially Nano Cubes and Iwagumi-style aquascapes, where it mimics a lush, natural meadow.

While generally considered an easy to moderate plant, success in carpeting the substrate depends on providing high-quality, nutrient-rich substrate and sufficient lighting. When conditions are met, it spreads horizontally via runners (stolons) to form a dense, vibrant green mat.

Care & Growth Profile:

• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate. It is hardy and adaptable to a wide range of water conditions, but forming a dense carpet requires attention to lighting and nutrients.
• Growth Habit: It is a Creeping Stolon Plant (runner plant). It spreads horizontally across the substrate to form a dense, low-growing carpet. When light is too low, the plant will grow vertically and become "leggy," losing the desirable carpet effect.
• Lighting: Medium to High. Moderate light is necessary for healthy growth; high light (PAR 40-60) is recommended to encourage dense, compact, horizontal growth and prevent it from growing too tall.
• Substrate & Fertilization: Heavy Root Feeder. A fine-grain, nutrient-rich substrate (like aqua soil) is highly beneficial for optimal growth and carpeting. In inert substrates (sand/gravel), root tabs must be used regularly. Liquid macro- and micronutrient fertilization is also recommended.
• CO₂: Recommended for optimal results. While not strictly required in low-light setups, supplemental CO₂ injection significantly boosts the slow growth rate and ensures a dense, compact carpet and a vibrant green color.
• Water Parameters: Highly adaptable. The ideal temperature range is 72−82°F (22−28°C). It tolerates a pH range of 5.5−8.0 and soft to very hard water.
• Max Height: 2−4 inches (5−10 cm). Height is highly dependent on light intensity (taller in low light, shorter in high light).
• Propagation: Easily propagated by separating the plant clumps and planting them in small bunches. It naturally spreads via runners (horizontal shoots). Trimming the tops can also encourage thicker, denser spreading.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Lilaeopsis mauritiana
• Primary Common Name: Mauritius Micro Sword
• Other Common Names: Narrow Leaf Micro Sword, Micro Sword, Copragrass
• Origin: Mauritius (Indian Ocean)
• Max Size: 2−4 inches (5−10 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Root Feeder (Nutrient-rich substrate is key)
• Minimum Tank Size: 5 Gallons+ (Ideal for Nano Tanks)
• Aquarium Placement: Foreground / Groundcover
• Growth Rate: Slow (Medium under high-tech conditions)