Java moss

Taxiphyllum barbieri

Family : Hypnaceae

PlantFreshwatermoss

Very popular aquatic moss in aquariums, easy to grow and versatile. Ideal for community tanks.

Popularity

Easy plant

standard lighting, few requirements

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Not Evaluated

Biotope

Southeast Asia

Rivières et forêts inondées d'Indonésie, Malaisie, Thaïlande.

Description

Taxiphyllum barbieri is an aquatic moss of the Hypnaceae family. It forms dense clumps of fine, branched stems with small oval leaves. Its color is bright green. It grows slowly to moderately, attaching easily to surfaces. It is widely used in aquascaping to create carpets, trees, or moss walls. It provides excellent shelter for fry and shrimp. It tolerates a wide range of parameters.

Habitat

Region :

Rivers, streams, wetlands, on rocks and wood

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature20–28 °C

pH5–8

GH0–15 °dGH

KH0–10 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 30 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 2 mg/L

CO₂

≤ 0 mg/L

Light

Low

Care

Difficulty

1/5

Diet

Photosynthetic

Min. tank

10 L

Min. group

Adult size

10 cm

Lifespan

5 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

division, fragmentation

Care notes

Java moss is very easy to care for. It accepts low to moderate light, but stronger light promotes denser growth. Temperature between 20 and 28 °C, pH 5.0–8.0. No CO2 needed, but liquid fertilization can be beneficial. Moderate flow is well tolerated. It can be attached with fishing line or glue. Occasional trimming keeps it compact. Compatible with all fish and shrimp.

Track this species in your tank