Manatee grass is the second most abundant sea grass in most of the Caribbean, as well as in Florida. It features long, cylindrical leaves reaching heights of up to 20 inches in deeper water meadows. It is most often found growing intertwined with turtle grass, as it prefers deeper water habitats to about 60 ft. Manatee grass can withstand salinities as low as 20 ppt. to approximately 40 ppt. In the aquarium it requires a moderate depth of sediment (6-8″ minimum) for its deep rhizome network. The root system spreads by lateral growth of the rhizomes at their ends and is the most common form of reproduction (flowering is rare). Sand beds that are rich in organic material are best, but plants can be fertilized by inorganic means such as dry and liquid plant food. The roots are easily damaged, so care must be taken when planting this particular species in the aquarium. A tall tank is usually needed as individual plants can grow quite large. It can be difficult to find specimens for sale as all seagrass is protected in Florida and can only be harvested as free floating specimens.
Scientific Name: Syringodium filiforme
Common Name: Manatee Grass
Origin: Gulf of Mexico, Atlantic, Caribbean
Depth Collected: 5-60 Feet
Maximum Height : 20″
Growth Rate: Slow
Light: High
Temperature: 78-86
Propagation: Rhizomes, Seeds
Difficulty: Advanced
Food Value: Not Palatable
Nutrient Uptake: Good once established
Flow Rate: Moderate to High