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Java Moss

(Taxiphyllum barbieri 

Temperature: 68 - 80 F

pH: 6.0 - 8.0

dGH / dKH: 3 - 12

Lighting:

Growth Rate: Quick 

DifficultyEasy 

     This month were taking a closer look at Taxiphyllum barbieri, better known as java moss. Origination from the inland soft water streams of Southeast Asia, This fresh water plant is easy to grow and can be placed in just about any style of freshwater aquarium.

 

      Java moss is does not require high lighting CO2 injection or the addition of fertilizer to grow well, making it perfect for all the low tech tanks out there. It has multiple applications in the aquarium but is primarily used as a foreground plant or a microenvironment for shrimp and fry. Generally a temperature between 68 and 80 F, pH anywhere from 6 to 8 and total hardness between 3 and 12 will suit this plant well.

 

 

 

Java Moss Care Sheet

 

     Java moss can be attached to rocks and driftwood as a method for softening the edges between hardscape objects and also enables one to create unique features like aquatic trees and moss carpets. Trimming java moss every few weeks will help promote its lateral growth and improve its overall look. Be careful of moss trimmings and other bunches which aren’t attached as they can easily clog filter intakes and impellers.

 

     Java moss is also a great feature when keeping shrimp or trying to raise fry, the small fish or shrimp will have a place to hide from predators and cannibalistic parents, as well as an environment for scavenging food that settles inside. Perhaps the most impressive feature of java moss is its ability to absorb ammonia and nitrate from the water column. Adding just a few handfuls of moss to your newly set up tank, can help reduce the overall nitrogen load while performing a fish in cycle.

 

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