Java moss bonsai tree12/6/2023 Monosolenium is not taken on board by more advanced aquascapers as it can be tricky to find the right cohabitants to match or complement its distinct, almost alien appearance. It propagates by division of the thalli, which gives it the distinctive staghorn shapes. This means it does not have organised parts such as roots, stems or leaves. Liverworts do not have leaves but a thallus. However, it is much larger and is heavier than water, so a sinker. Previously known as ‘Pellia’ this is not a moss but a liverwort, much like Riccia fluitans and more closely like Riccardia graffei. Interestingly, it has yet to be found growing underwater in the wild. It’s found where there’s high concentrations of nitrogen, usually in human locations, giving the plant access to excess agricultural fertilisers. This odd yet intriguing plant originates in the Far East, being found in countries such as India, China, Japan and Hawaii. More demanding than the rest of the mosses, it is specialist and best kept where higher light levels, along with CO2 and liquid fertilisation, are part of the aquascaper’s set-up. However, without attachment to hardscape you will have a survivor growing loose, better resembling Java moss, its close relative. Strong light, with regular pruning, keeps it looking compact and interesting. Avoid tying it to branchy wood as it can look out of place, which does not fit into the natural style of aquascaping. Given its growth habits Christmas moss is best positioned either over rocks or in crevices to sprawl around the aquarium. Its creeping, tight-forming nature hugs rocks and wood like no other. Vesicularia montagnei ‘Christmas’ (sometimes considered a form of dubyana) is one of the most sought-after mosses, forming dense, bright green, irregular pinnate growth that simply yells ‘look at me’. The name for this moss is very indicative of growth style. Now it has finally reached the European hobbyist. Originally from Brazil, it was first seen in the Japanese hobby and known as Amazonian willow moss, thanks to close association with other Vesicularia species more common in the Far East. In higher tech aquariums with high fertiliser levels this is unstoppable.Ĭhristmas moss, Vesicularia montagnei ‘Christmas’Įvery day is Christmas with this stunning moss. In low light and lean water columns it may look smaller and thinner. Not fussy about light requirements, this is a very versatile plant and growth is slow to moderate. barbieri, being undemanding, will grow almost anywhere and in almost any water conditions. If you only seem to have algae in your moss, this could be the reason why.ĭon’t be shy when pruning Java moss as the more severe you cut it back the tighter it will grow. Failure can result in rotting under layers and trigger localised ammonia spikes. The key is not to lay it too thickly when fixing to hardscape as you need to see the wood or rock through it. As it also has a moderate growth rate, it can be used to great effect as a carpeting plant in lowlight aquaria. However, if pruned, it can be shaped into attractive clusters, following the lines of wood or shaped to follow the contours of a rock. Left to its own devices, after being attached to hardscape, it will soon resemble a tangle of long, thin, intertwining spiders’ webs. This plant can be either one of grace or disarray. Originating from South-East Asia, it is part of a huge line of terrestrial mosses, but few can adapt to underwater life. Probably the most commonly available moss, Taxiphyllum barbieri, or Java moss, is versatile and undemanding. In my experience this plant reacts badly to liquid carbon-type products in high concentrations, as when combating algae. It does not require CO2 although, like all plants, this would be very welcome. Over the months the plant’s rhizoids will attach to the hardscape and bloom into a delightful, round mint-green cluster of feathery stems.Ĭare is relatively easy. It’s very slow growing and requires little, if any, pruning. Best tie it in place with dark cotton.įissidens looks particularly natural when tied to branch-like pieces of wood or nestled at the base of a rock formation. Spread it thinly but evenly, not laying too thickly but avoid creating too many gaps. It’s dark green, limp and uninspiring - but the true pleasure is yet to come.Īttaching this delicate moss to any hardscape surface can be fiddly. If receiving this moss by post, you could be disappointed at its transported state. This moss will attach itself to the usual locations - wood, rocks and hardened riverbank soil - during the dry seasons. It can often be found in slow or even stagnant water and its tight cushion-like clusters can also be seen emersed, due to fluctuations in water levels. This aquatic moss originates from the USA but many related species even reach Australia. Phoenix moss, Fissidens fontanus (pictured above)
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