202. Rheophytes, Epiphytes and More

In this episode, the Water Colors team discusses plants that grow on structures, such as hardscape elements, as opposed to those that root directly in substrate. Classifying these types of plants can be tricky! We have most commonly used the term epiphyte, but it turns out this is more of a hobbyist classification rather than a scientific one. Rheophytes, epiphytes, microphytes, macrophytes, lithophytes – the list goes on and on! These terms all describe plant growth on different mediums, therefore, using one term to describe them all is inaccurate. Join us as we attempt to breakdown this terminology and make the classification of plants more confusing than ever! In the words of one of our listeners, “We don’t talk about ‘-phyte’ club!”   Join the discussion on the Water Colors Aquarium Gallery Podcast Listeners Facebook group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/788428861825086/   Enjoying the show? Support the gallery by shopping aquarium plants, merch, equipment, and more! https://watercolorsaquariumgallery.com/   Looking for more content? Become a YouTube member for exclusive access to behind the scenes livestreams! https://www.youtube.com/@watercolorsaquariumgallery   Species mentioned in this episode: Bucephalandra ‘Kedagang’ Bucephalandra ‘Ultramafica’ Bucephalandra ‘Catherine’ Bolbitis heudelotii Fissidens fontanus Narrow leaf java fern, ‘microsorm pteropus’ Hygrophila pinnatafida Dicranopygium sp. ‘Guna Yala’ Anubias barteri nana ‘petite’ Anubias hastifolia Anubias frazeri Anubias afzelii Süßwassertang