Willow Moss

Fontinalis antipyretica

Family : Fontinalaceae

PlantFreshwatermoss

Robust aquatic moss from cold waters, forming long leafy stems. Ideal for coldwater or temperate tanks.

Willow Moss — photo 1 sur 4
Bernd Haynold · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 3.01 / 4
Popularity
Easy plant
standard lighting, few requirements
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Europe
Poissons et invertébrés d'Europe tempérée.

Description

Willow moss is a robust aquatic moss from cold, flowing waters. Its stems are erect or drooping, covered with dark green lanceolate leaves. It forms dense clumps and can reach 30 cm in length. It prefers cool, well-oxygenated water. In the aquarium, it is ideal for coldwater or temperate tanks. It provides an excellent spawning substrate for fish. Its growth is moderate to fast depending on conditions.

Habitat

Region :

Cold, fast-flowing waters, on submerged rocks and wood

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature1524 °C
pH6.57.5
GH515 °dGH
KH310 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 2 mg/L
CO₂
≤ 0 mg/L
Light
Medium

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Photosynthetic
Min. tank
20 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
30 cm
Lifespan
5 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Fragmentation

Care notes

Willow moss requires cool water between 15 and 24°C and good water flow. Moderate lighting is sufficient, but it tolerates stronger light. CO2 is not necessary. A neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5-7.5) and medium hardness are suitable. It can be attached to rocks or left floating. Regular trimming prevents it from becoming too invasive. It is sensitive to high temperatures and organic pollution.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References