Java Moss | Taxiphyllum 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. 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. Due to its clinging nature, Java moss can also be made into a moss wall. It is especially popular among aquarists raising fry and shrimp, 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 feed on the miniature leaf like structures known as phyllids. Java moss can be easily propagated via division. It is suitable for both aquariums and vivariums.