How Much Oxygen Does Petite Mishima Plant Produce?

The Petite Mishima plant, also known as the Japanese Moss Ball or Marimo, is a unique and fascinating aquatic plant that has gained popularity among plant enthusiasts. This small green ball of algae is not only aesthetically pleasing but also has some remarkable benefits, including oxygen production.

What is Petite Mishima Plant?

The Petite Mishima plant is a species of algae that grows in freshwater lakes and rivers in Japan, Estonia, Iceland, Scotland, and parts of the United States. Its scientific name is Aegagropila linnaei, but it is more commonly known as Marimo or Moss Ball due to its appearance.

The plant consists of densely packed filaments of green algae that form into a spherical shape. It can grow up to 12 inches in diameter, but most Marimos available for purchase are much smaller, usually around 1-2 inches. The Petite Mishima plant is slow-growing and requires low to moderate light levels to thrive.

Oxygen Production

Like all plants, the Petite Mishima plant undergoes photosynthesis, a process by which plants convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into oxygen and glucose. During photosynthesis, plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air or water and release oxygen as a byproduct.

Although the Petite Mishima plant is relatively small compared to other aquatic plants, it still contributes to oxygen production. The amount of oxygen produced by a Marimo depends on several factors, including its size, health, and the amount of light it receives.

Factors Affecting Oxygen Production

1. Size: The size of the Petite Mishima plant directly affects its oxygen production capacity. Larger Marimos have more surface area for photosynthesis to occur, allowing them to produce more oxygen. However, even smaller Marimos contribute to oxygen production, although at a lesser rate.

2. Health: The health of the Marimo also plays a role in oxygen production. A healthy plant with vibrant green color indicates optimal photosynthesis, resulting in higher oxygen production. On the other hand, a stressed or unhealthy Marimo may not produce as much oxygen.

3. Light: Light is a crucial factor for plant growth and photosynthesis. The amount and intensity of light the Marimo receives directly affect its oxygen production. While Petite Mishima plants can tolerate low light conditions, they still require some light to perform photosynthesis efficiently.

Estimating Oxygen Output

It is challenging to quantify the exact amount of oxygen produced by a Petite Mishima plant since it varies depending on many factors. However, we can estimate the oxygen output based on general principles.

On average, one square meter of healthy plants can produce approximately 5-7 liters of oxygen per hour during daylight hours. However, it’s important to note that this estimate is for a dense mass of plants, not individual Marimos.

Since Marimos are typically much smaller than one square meter, their oxygen production would be proportionately lower. Additionally, their spherical shape reduces the surface area available for photosynthesis compared to leafy plants.

Considering these factors, it is safe to assume that a single Petite Mishima plant may produce only a fraction of a liter of oxygen per hour. However, when multiple Marimos are grouped together, their combined oxygen production can become more significant.

Additional Benefits

While the Petite Mishima plant may not be the most significant contributor to oxygen production compared to larger plants or forests, it still offers several other benefits that make it worth having in your home or office space.

1. Air purification: Like all plants, Marimos help improve air quality by removing toxins and releasing oxygen. They can absorb pollutants such as carbon dioxide, ammonia, and nitrates from the water they are kept in.

2. Stress reduction: Having plants around has been proven to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. The soothing presence of the Petite Mishima plant can help create a tranquil environment, especially when displayed in a small aquarium or glass container.

3. Low maintenance: The Petite Mishima plant is incredibly easy to care for, making it an ideal choice for busy individuals or those new to plant care. It requires minimal light, no fertilization, and infrequent water changes.

4. Natural decoration: The unique appearance of the Marimo adds a touch of natural beauty to any space. It can be displayed in various ways, such as floating in water, placed in a terrarium, or even as part of a centerpiece.

Conclusion

While the Petite Mishima plant may not be the most significant oxygen producer compared to larger plants, it still contributes to oxygen production and offers many other benefits. Its low maintenance requirements and aesthetic appeal make it an excellent choice for plant enthusiasts of all levels. So, consider adding a Marimo or two to your collection and enjoy the benefits they bring to your living space.