More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 12°C / 53.60°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 12°C / 53.60°F - 34°C / 93.20°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 10-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Taxiphyllum alternans, also known as Taiwan Moss, is a creeping moss species belonging to the genus Taxiphyllum in the family Hypnaceae. Native to regions with temperate-subtropical climates such as the southeastern USA and Eastern Asia, it thrives in habitats like earth, exposed tree roots, rotting wood in swamps, and rocks in rivulets and waterfalls. Initially introduced to the hobby as Taiwan moss, it was later identified by Prof. Benito C. Tan as Taxiphyllum alternans, resembling Taxiphyllum barbieri but branching more densely and regularly under proper lighting.
Aquarium Suitability
With a difficulty level classified as very easy, Taiwan Moss is a suitable addition to aquariums, appreciated for its undemanding nature and versatility in aquascaping. It can be used in nano tanks and as an epiphyte on hardscape, offering frond-like, ramified shoots with a triangular outline that allows for creative layouting within the aquatic environment. Its slow growth rate makes maintenance relatively straightforward for aquarists of all skill levels. (see table)
Demands and Hardiness
Taiwan Moss requires a pH range of 5-8, a temperature range of 12-34°C (tolerating up to 30°C), and moderate levels of nutrients such as carbon dioxide (10-40 mg/L), nitrate (10-50 mg/L), phosphate (0.1-3 mg/L), and potassium (5-30 mg/L). It can adapt to diverse lighting conditions, from low to high, and tolerates a carbonate hardness of 0-14.
Aquascaping & Usage
Due to its fine structure and dense ramification, Taiwan Moss is a favored choice for aquascaping, offering aquarists the opportunity to create intricate designs in their tanks. Its similarities to other moss species like Christmas moss and variations in leaf margins distinguish it in layout compositions, making it an attractive option for aquascaping enthusiasts.
Propagation
Taxiphyllum alternans can be propagated through splitting and cutting off daughter plants, allowing for easy expansion within an aquarium setting. This simple propagation method enables aquarists to create lush moss carpets or fill in gaps within their aquascape designs seamlessly.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Taiwan Moss can be found growing on various substrates such as rocks, tree roots, and decaying wood in swampy areas. Its distribution spans regions with temperate-subtropical climates, including parts of the southeastern United States and Eastern Asia, where it thrives in humid environments near water sources like rivulets and waterfalls.