Java moss

Java moss
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Bryophyta
Class: Bryopsida
Subclass: Bryidae
Order: Hypnales
Family: Hypnaceae
Genus: Taxiphyllum
Species: barbieri

Java moss is a moss belonging to the Hypnaceae family. Native to Southeast Asia, it is commonly used in freshwater aquariums. It attaches to rocks, roots, and driftwood. The identity of this well-known plant is not resolved; formerly thought to be Vesicularia dubyana (Brotherus, 1908), it may actually be Taxiphyllum barbieri (Cardot & Copp.) Z. Iwats.[1] It was originally described as Isopterygium barbieri Cardot & Copp. from Vinh, Vietnam.[2]

Java moss does not require any special attention. It accepts all kinds of water, even weakly brackish, and all kinds of light qualities. It grows best at 70 to 75° Fahrenheit (21 to 24° Celsius), but can live in temperatures of up to 85 to 90 °F (29 to 32 °C). It makes a good foreground plant. In aquariums it should be planted where there is good water current because debris gets stuck on it easily and gives it a brown fuzzy appearance. Due to its clinging nature Java moss can also be made into a moss wall. This can be accomplished by folding a net and spreading the moss evenly across it. Then, the net can be secured together by polyester strings, and held on the aquarium wall by using suction cups. It is a slow starter until it has established itself.

It is especially popular among aquarists raising fry (baby fish) and tadpoles, to protect them from cannibalistic adults. Java moss can also provide food for the newly formed fry, which can be challenging to feed. Some shrimp like to tear the miniature leaves off it to eat.

Java moss can be easily propagated via division. It is suitable for both aquariums and vivariums.

See also

References

  1. ↑ Tan, B.C., Loh, K.L., & Gan, C.W. (2005): A case of mistaken identity? What is the true identity of Java Moss and other aquarium mosses sold in Singapore shops? Singapore Scientist, 102: 8-11
  2. ↑ Type of Isopterygium barbieri Cardot & Copp.
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