Java moss

Family Hypnaceae (Нурпасеае). Java moss - grows in the tropics of Southeast Asia. Forms mats. The long, heavily branched stems reach 50 cm. It consists of an interweaving of thin dark-green threads, the small (about 0.2 cm) leaves are colored in various shades of green. It attaches firmly to the irregularities of stones and driftwood. A plant that is left undisturbed for a long time forms very attractive mats. Moss can be used as a substrate for the spawning of many fish. The plant is very undemanding and therefore widespread among aquarium hobbyists. Java moss grows slowly but steadily throughout the year.

Limnobium is a surface-floating plant with round glossy leaves 2-3 cm in diameter, borne on short petioles. It is used not only as an ornamental plant but also as a natural shade in the aquarium. Under favorable conditions Limnobium, rapidly spreading, can cover the entire surface of the aquarium. In this case excess plants should be removed periodically. The tufted roots of Limnobium excellently clear the water of turbidity. Thanks to its undemanding nature the plant is very widespread among aquarists. In home conditions its even growth throughout the year can be achieved.

Java moss is kept at a temperature of 22-30 °C. At temperatures below 22 °C the plant's growth practically stops. Water hardness and the water's active reaction (pH) do not matter: Java moss grows satisfactorily in both very soft and hard water, with acidic and alkaline reactions. The water should be clear. In turbid water a film quickly forms on the moss, which not only spoils the plant's appearance but also disrupts its nutrition. Regular water changes in the aquarium are not obligatory, as the moss develops satisfactorily even in old water.

Lighting for Limnobium, as for most floating plants, should be strong, but it tolerates short periods of shading. Under natural light, especially sunlight, Limnobium looks particularly beautiful and reaches its maximum size. It can also grow satisfactorily under artificial lighting. For this, fluorescent lamps of the LB type with a power of at least 2 W per 1 dm2 of surface are used. The use of incandescent lamps is undesirable, as they can cause leaf burns. The light period should be at least 12 hours.

The nature of the lighting and its intensity do not play a major role. The plant tolerates prolonged shading and can grow with a minimal amount of light. Under bright lighting the moss acquires a rich green color and the threads begin to branch. The mat then becomes dense and has a very attractive appearance.

The type of substrate does not matter for the plant. A piece of moss will grow perfectly if it is simply placed on the bottom of the aquarium that is not covered with substrate.

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