More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | restricted |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | very slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 20-40mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Hyophila involuta, commonly known as Cement moss or star moss, is a lawn-forming moss with upright shoots. Its tongue-like leaves grow densely and spiral around the stem, forming a rosulate group at the shoot tip, resembling a small star. This moss is predominantly found in tropical regions but can also be sporadically found in a few locations in Central Europe, typically on limestone rocks, moist house foundations, shore walls, and temporarily flooded rocks.
Aquarium Suitability
Reports on the suitability of Hyophila involuta for aquarium cultivation vary, and there is uncertainty regarding whether all reports truly refer to this species. This moss is labeled as difficult to cultivate in aquariums and is considered restricted in terms of its compatibility due to conflicting information regarding its adaptability to aquatic environments (see table).
Demands and Hardiness
Hyophila involuta requires medium-high light levels, a pH range of 5-7.5, and a temperature range of 22-28°C. It has a slow growth rate and is categorized as a difficult plant to maintain in aquariums.
Aquascaping & Usage
This moss can be utilized as an epiphyte, growing on hardscape elements in aquariums. It is also suitable for nano tanks due to its compact growth habit, making it a potential choice for aquascaping projects.
Propagation
Propagation of Hyophila involuta is typically achieved through splitting and cutting off daughter plants, allowing for the expansion of moss coverage in various aquatic environments.
Habitat and Distribution
Primarily native to tropical regions, Hyophila involuta can be found in some isolated areas of Central Europe, far from its main populations in the African tropics. It thrives in habitats such as limestone rocks, moist house foundations (explaining its vernacular name "cement moss"), walls on the shore, and rocks subject to periodic flooding.