More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 12°C / 53.60°F - 34°C / 93.20°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-21 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 5-40mg/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 barbieri, commonly known as Java moss, is a popular and widely spread aquarium moss. Often confused with Vesicularia dubyana, Java moss was identified as T. barbieri by moss expert Zennosuke Iwatsuki. With low water quality and lighting requirements, it thrives in planted tanks, showing versatile growth under different conditions and temperatures, preferring around 24°C for optimal health. Offering a lush appearance, it can be further enhanced with fertilizers and carbon dioxide but can still flourish without them.
Aquarium Suitability
Highly suitable for aquariums, Java moss presents very low demands, contributing to its popularity among aquarists. It can be easily propagated by cutting off portions, offering a natural and attractive option for aquascaping. This moss attaches securely to various surfaces, making it ideal for decorating wood, rocks, and even Hamburg mat filters in tanks. It serves as a great hideaway for fish larvae and adds a decorative touch to nano tanks and spawning areas.
Demands and Hardiness
See table for specific water conditions required for optimal growth. Java moss is very easy to care for and maintain, making it suitable for beginners in the hobby. It can adapt to a wide range of water temperatures and light intensities, growing well under moderate conditions. Regular trimming with scissors helps control its growth, allowing for easy maintenance in the aquarium setup.
Aquascaping & Usage
Ideal for creating moss carpets in the foreground of tanks, Java moss can be shaped and tied to hardscape elements using nylon lines. Its ability to cover and decorate surfaces quickly makes it a versatile option for aquascaping projects. Java moss is commonly used in nano tanks and shrimp breeding setups, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits as a spawning platform for fish and invertebrates.
Propagation
Propagating Java moss is straightforward, as it can be propagated by splitting or cutting off daughter plants. This ease of propagation makes it a practical choice for aquarists looking to expand their moss coverage within the tank. Trimmed portions of the moss can also be shared or replanted in different areas, contributing to the overall aesthetic of the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution
Originating from Vietnam, Taxiphyllum barbieri belongs to the Hypnaceae family and is classified under the order Hypnales. While its outdoor growth requirements are unknown, it thrives as an epiphyte or epilith in aquatic environments. With its adaptability to varying water conditions and temperatures, Java moss has become a staple in aquascaping and is frequently available commercially and through other aquarium enthusiasts.