Hypnoid Willow Moss

Fontinalis hypnoides

Family : Fontinalaceae

PlantFreshwatermoss

Aquatic moss similar to willow moss, but preferring calm waters. Forms dense green mats.

Hypnoid Willow Moss — photo 1 sur 4
[Michio Murakoshi (1872-1948) · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain1 / 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

Hypnoid willow moss is an aquatic moss with creeping or ascending stems, densely leafy. Its leaves are oval-lanceolate, medium green. It forms dense mats on hard substrates. Unlike Fontinalis antipyretica, it tolerates calm, less oxygenated waters better. Its growth is moderate. It is often used in coldwater or temperate aquariums. It provides good shelter for small fish and shrimp.

Habitat

Region :

Still or slow-moving waters, on rocks and wood

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature1526 °C
pH67.5
GH312 °dGH
KH28 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 2 mg/L
CO₂
≤ 0 mg/L
Light
Low

Care

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

Care notes

This moss prefers cool water (15-24°C) but tolerates higher temperatures up to 26°C. Low to moderate lighting is suitable. CO2 is not needed. A pH of 6 to 7.5 and low to medium hardness are ideal. It attaches easily to decorations. Regular trimming keeps it compact. It can be grown floating. Avoid excess nutrients to limit algae.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References