Java Moss – Fish Laboratory Aquatics

Common Name(s)Java MossScientific NameTaxiphyllum barbieriOriginSoutheast AsiaEase of GrowingEasyAquacapeForeground plant that can used to create a carpet effect.Height2–4 inches (5–10 cm)pH5.0-8.0Temperature21-24°C (70-75°F)Growth RateSlow growth (1-1.5 inches per month)PropagationDivision of plants by cuttingLight RequirementLow to medium lightCO2 RequirementCO2 is not required, but it may help increase growth rate. Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barieri) and Amano Shrimp What is Java Moss? Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) is an aquatic moss that is very popular among aquarium hobbyists and aquascapers. They are versatile and easy to care for. It was named after the island in Indonesia, which can be found between Sumatra and Bali. Small, visually pleasing, and robust, the Java Moss offers a little haven for many fish who wish to take cover, lay their eggs or feed on the scraps of microorganisms this moss provides. Java Moss is native to Southeast Asia, appearing in countries such as: Japan, Java, the Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Philippines, and the East Indian ocean islands. Java moss is both aquatic and semi-aquatic, which means they are able to sprout and live on both water and land. It does not bloom any flowers, and the older the plant gets, the darker its distinctive green color will appear. It grows in tropical conditions where high-levels of moisture is available. They grow naturally in jungles, waterfalls, river banks, and most fresh water environments. It can survive in slightly brackish waters as well. Java Moss is also known as Singapore Moss, Mini Moss, Dubious Bladder Moss, Willow Moss, and Triangular Moss. What is the Scientific Name of Java Moss? The scientific name for Java Moss is Taxiphyllum barbieri. However, there has been a lot of debate regarding the scientific name of Java Moss. It used to be known as Vesicularia dubyana. Before this name was established, it was previously identified as Isopterygium barbieri. For accuracy and to avoid confusion, it is recommended to refer to Java Moss by its current scientific name, Taxiphyllum barbieri. However, some local fish stores still mislabel them with previous names or confuse Java Moss with others species that look similar, such as Christmas Moss and Weeping Moss. Java Moss Care Java Moss is easy to care for, so they are perfect for beginner fish keepers wishing to introduce aquatic moss to their aquarium. Experimenting with where to place this moss can be interesting, as their rhizoids allow them to attach to any surface. However, this can make controlling its growth somewhat difficult once established. Therefore, regular pruning will be required. Since these aquarium moss are small plants, they don’t require a large tank. They are great for growing in 10 gallon tanks. In fact, they will grow in nano tanks that are even smaller as well, making it perfect for shrimp tanks or fry tanks. Java Moss will grow on various types of aquarium substrate, but they don’t necessarily need substrate to grow. They can attach itself to various objects including aquarium driftwood and rock. Aquarium plant fertilizers can be used to ensure availability of nutrients for Java Moss. These essential nutrients for proper growth include nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Aquarium plant fertilizers are usually available as root tabs or liquid fertilizers. Since Java Moss do not have roots that grow into the substrate, liquid fertilizers should be used. A good aquarium filter and some water current would allow Java Moss to thrive. In their natural habitat, they grow in areas with clean water and gentle currents. Water changes can be beneficial, but drastic changes in water parameters may have a negative effect on the plant. Therefore, small water changes of up to 20% of the total water capacity should be done. Needless to say, harsh chemicals should not be used when cleaning the aquarium. Lighting Requirement Java Moss will grow under low and medium light environments. Aquarium light capacity of approximately 0.5 watts per liter is optimal. The light should be kept on for approximately 6-9 hours per day. Within the acceptable range, if there is more light intensity or light duration, the plant will grow faster. Under low light environments, Java Moss will not grow very fast. The plant may not grow as dense as well. Under extreme conditions with very little light over an extended period of time, the plant may not survive. However, compared to many other aquarium plants, Java Moss is resilient to low light environments. Under high light environments, Java Moss may not grow very well. Under acceptable range, more light will help the plant grow faster and more dense. However, exposure to high intensity light for long hours will cause harm to the plant. In general, the Java Moss should not be exposed to light for over 10 hours per day. Too much light can cause unwanted algae growth as well, which is a another reason to limit light duration. Overall, Java Moss is considered an undemanding plant in terms of their lighting requirements. Temperature Java Moss is very hardy and can survive temperatures between 15°C to 30°C (60°F to 86°F). If aquarists want their Java Moss to grow at their optimal rate, they will need to keep their water at 21°C to 24°C (70°F to 75°F). pH Java Moss typically do well in soft acidic water, with a pH range between 5.0-8.0. Water Hardness In general, Java Moss should be plant in an aquarium with water hardness of up to 25°dGH and a carbonate hardness of 20°dKH. They are relatively undemanding in regards to their requirements for water hardness. Growth Rate Java Moss does not have a fast growth rate. Similar to other aquarium moss, they are considered slow growers. In general, Java Moss will grow 1-1.5 inches per month under optimal conditions. When the plant is placed in a new environment, it will take a few weeks for the plant to get established. It may take approximately 4 weeks before the plant attaches itself to a surface securely and start growing at its normal rate. Good lighting and adequate fertilization will result in optimal growth rate. CO2 injection may help increase growth rate as well. Growth Height Java Moss will grow to an average height of 2–4 inches (5–10 cm). However, unpruned plants in low light conditions may grow taller. However, grow in low light conditions will be less dense. Is Aquarium CO2 Required for Java Moss? Adding carbon dioxide (CO2) is not required for growing Java Moss. They will do fine without the CO2 injection, but it may help speed up the growth rate. Liquid fertilisers can also be used in place of CO2 to achieve this. As a general rule, it would be best to keep CO2 levels at 3 to 5mg per liter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rRi7Hz9Ipk How to Care for Java Moss - Perfect Plant for Breeding Fish Java Moss Propagation Java Moss can be propagated by simply cutting a small portion of the plant and replanting it. Small cuttings of only 2 inches can be enough to grow a new plant. In their natural habitat, sections of the plant break off from the main plant regularly. Especially when the plant grows too long, the ends may get detached. This allows the plant to establish itself in a new location. Since the plant can get detached easily, it should be handled with care. Plant cuttings can be replanted in a different location. In their natural environment, the plant will drive through the currents until it is settles in a location. In an aquarium, the plant cuttings can attached to rocks or driftwood by using strings or aquarium safe glue. Within a few weeks the rhizoids will attach itself to the object. Keep in mind that plant cuttings may not start growing immediately. It may take a few weeks for the plant to get established and start growing at its optimal growth rate. Fertilization and lighting is important, but be aware that too much of it can result in unwanted algae growth. How to Grow Java Moss in an Aquarium Java Moss is one of the easiest aquarium plants to grow. They are versatile, so it can be grown in various areas of the aquarium. Since they can tolerate low light conditions, they can be used to fill in empty spaces in the aquarium that other plants wouldn’t be able to grow in. Since Java Moss do not have roots, they must be attached to an object. Regardless of where it is being planted, it should be anchored or secured to a fixed location. This will allow the plant to attach itself over time. Benefits of Adding Java Moss to an Aquarium There are many advantages to including Java Moss in an aquarium set up, which both the fish and keepers will appreciate. Java Moss is an exceptional water detoxifier, decreasing the levels of harmful chemicals (e.g. nitrates) that can be harmful to aquarium fish and other aquatic animals. It also helps increase oxygen levels. Java Moss is beneficial for small fish and shrimp that need a sheltered area. They can hide from larger predators when they need to. In addition, Java Moss provides a suitable habitat for microorganisms to grow on. These microorganisms can be a valuable food source for small fish and shrimp as well. For these reasons, Java Moss is often used in breeder tanks and fry grow-out tanks. How to use Java Moss in an Aquascape? Java Moss is often used to create natural aquascapes. Since Java Moss is a versatile plant, it can be used in many different types of aquascapes and in many different areas within an aquarium. Even a small patch of Moss growing in the corner of the tank can help complete the look of a natural aquascape. As a foreground plant, Java Moss is a perfect candidate. Since they are short plants with a growth height of only 2-4 inches, they are well suited to be planted in the front of the tank. They can be planted in clusters, which may become a focal point in the aquascape. They can also be planted throughout the bottom of the tank to create a carpet effect. As a mid-ground plant, Java Moss is great as well. Since they aren’t tall plants, they will most likely only be suitable as a mid-ground plant for smaller aquariums. However, if they are attached to objects that are above the substrate level, they can be used as a mid-ground plant in larger aquariums as well. For example, they can be attached to driftwood, rocks, and other hardscapes within the aquarium. Some aquascape designs incorporate Java Moss to create underwater trees. By using bonsai driftwood and Java Moss, beautiful underwater forests can be created. Java Moss is usually not used as a background plant, but they can be. Due to their short height, they aren’t usually planted on the substrate if they are being used as a background plant. Instead, they are attached to an hardscape using strings or aquarium safe glue. If it is attached to a mesh material, the entire background can even be covered with a Java Moss wall. Java Moss Carpet Java Moss can be used to create a carpet effect on the bottom of an aquarium. Since they are short plants with small leaves, they are great plants for creating a carpet. They are slow growing plants, so it will take some time to create a dense carpet. It may take a few months to create the desired effect. However, this also means that there will be less trimming required once they are established as well. Here’s how to create a Java Moss carpet: Cut the Java Moss into small pieces of 2-4 inches.Place the pieces of Java Moss evenly on a stainless steel mesh material. Secure the Java Moss onto the stainless steel mesh material using a string.Place the Java Moss on the aquarium floor and allow it to grow. The stainless steel mesh material can be cut into small sections. For example, 4 inch square sections are easy to manage. As long as the mesh material is aquarium safe, it doesn’t have to be stainless steel. Many aquarists use rigid plastic mesh material since they are more affordable and easier to work with. However, keep in mind that plastic material will float. Therefore, if a Java Moss carpet is created with a plastic mesh material, it must be attached to a weight. After the Java Moss is attached to a mesh material and placed on the bottom of the aquarium, allow it to get established and grow. The mesh material will be visible in the beginning, but it will be covered with Java Moss eventually. This process may take a few months, so it is important to be patient. In the meantime, provide good lighting, adequate nutrients, and maybe some CO2 injection to achieve optimum growth rates. How to Grow a Java Moss Ball? Java Moss balls are a great way of displaying the plant in an aquascape. Since Java Moss are versatile, they can be planted on various hardscapes, including spherical objects. Here’s how to grow a Java Moss ball: Cut the Java Moss into small pieces of 2-4 inches.Place the pieces of Java Moss evenly around a round rock.Secure the Java Moss on the rock with aquarium safe glue or flexible mesh material. Place the Java Moss ball in the aquarium and allow it to grow. Initially, the Java Moss ball may not look as intended. However, be sure to let the plant grow out for a few months. Afterwards, trim the plant into a spherical shape. After a couple trimming session, it should start to look better. If the Java Moss ball is allowed to grow out without trimming, it will look like a natural clump of growth. This can be great for natural aquascapes. Since it is weighed down by the rock, it can be moved around as needed, even to different tanks. A floating Java Moss ball can be an eye-catching ornament in an aquarium. When done right, it creates an illusion of a floating ball of moss in the mid-water. Here’s how to create a floating Java Moss ball: Cut the Java Moss into small pieces of 2-4 inches.Place the pieces of Java Moss evenly around a floating spherical object, such as a plastic ball. Secure the Java Moss on the ball with aquarium safe glue or flexible mesh material.Secure a fishing line from the ball to a weight. Place the floating Java Moss ball and weight in the aquarium and allow it to grow. The length of the fishing line should be adjusted to allow the Java Moss ball to float around the middle of the tank. Using a similar method, some talented aquascapers have used carved styrofoam material to create the illusion of floating islands. Since Java Moss are so versatile, the possibility is only limited by the aquascapers’ creativity. Do Java Moss Grow Emersed? Java Moss is able to grow emersed, and they do so very often in their natural habitat. In areas of high humidity, such as jungles, Java Moss is able to grow emersed. While emersed Java Moss is usually found very close to bodies of water, they can be found growing well above the water surface. For example, they often grow on driftwood and rock that are found along the edge of the river. Why is my Java Moss Dying? Java Moss is a hardy plant that is undemanding. However, just like any other plant, it can die as well. When Java Moss is dying, they often loose their color and turn brown. Here are some of the possible reasons why your Java Moss is dying: Too much lightNot enough light Poor water quality Temperatures out of rangeLack of nutrients Chemical contamination Algae growth on Java MossShock during transport or transplanting Identifying the reason why your Java Moss is dying is important. Identifying and resolving the issue may help prevent the issue from affecting other plants and fish in the tank as well. Sometimes, the plant may simply be in need of a trimming. When Java Moss is allowed to grow out, the upper section of the plant will get the light it needs, but the growth underneath does not get enough light. Therefore, the lower portion of the plant may slowly turn brown. How to Deal with Algae on Java Moss Algae growth on Java Moss can be a problem. Not only is the algae growth unsightly, it may also prevent it from getting the light it needs. This can kill the plant, so it must be addressed as soon as possible. However, dealing with algae on Java Moss can be a challenge. Physically removing algae from the Java Moss may be possible, but this is often very difficult and tedious. Even if a soft brush is used, it may still damage the plant. If the root cause of the issue is not addressed, the algae will eventually overwhelm the Java Moss. For a long term solution for dealing with algae on Java Moss, consider lowering the light and nutrient level. Adding CO2 injection may help reduce the algae growth as well. Are Java Moss Good for Betta Fish Tanks? Java Moss is an excellent aquarium plant for Betta Fish tanks. First, Java Moss helps improve water quality of the tank. It does this by providing a habitat for beneficial bacteria to grow on, which enables the nitrogen cycle. It also absorbs the nitrates as well, further assisting in the nitrogen cycle. Second, Java Moss can provide the shelter and comfort to Betta fish. The fish can hide below the plant if it feels threatened. The fish can also lay on top of the soft growth to rest comfortably. Lastly, Java Moss is great for Betta fish tanks since it’s a hardy plant. Many aquarium plants can also absorb nitrates, but it will not survive in Betta tanks. This is because Betta tanks are usually small, not very well-lit, and has not CO2 injection. Java Moss is one of the few plants that will survive in these environments. Where to Find Java Moss for Sale Java Moss is one of the most popular aquarium plants. In fact, it is the most popular aquarium moss. Therefore, they are often available in local fish stores. If they are not available in a particular store, they will surely be available in many online retailers. Many hobbyists and breeders are a great source of healthy Java Moss as well. How much does Java Moss cost? Since Java Moss is very common, it is usually available at an affordable price. While prices can vary among different retailers, in general, a golf ball size bunch of Java Moss will cost around $5. Java Moss vs Christmas Moss Despite their almost identical appearance, Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) and Christmas Moss (Vesicularia montagnei) are different, and there are distinct characteristics between the two aquarium moss. Here are some of the differences between Java Moss and Christmas Moss: Java Moss is more tolerant of cold temperatures Java Moss is more tolerant of low light conditions Christmas Moss grows slowerChristmas Moss grows lower and more dense (great for creating a moss carpet)Java Moss is generally more hardy While the differences between Java Moss and Christmas Moss is listed above, they actually share more similarities than differences. While the are differences in their growth pattern, they will be indistinguishable to the untrained eye. Therefore, they are often mislabeled in local fish stores. Java Moss vs Flame Moss Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) and Flame Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) are both aquarium moss with similar appearances. However, there are differences between the two plants. One difference is their growth rate. Java moss tends to grow faster than Flame Moss. Another difference is their growth pattern. Java Moss grow outward in all directions. However, Flame Moss tend to grow upward. When grown in an aquarium, the vertical growth resembles a burning flame, giving it the name ‘Flame Moss.’ Both moss originate from freshwater habitats in South-East Asia and belong in the Hypnaceae family, though they do differ in genus.