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What is a Marimo moss ball
Marimo is a type of moss ball that mainly grows in the northern hemisphere. Marimo is its Japanese name; it’s also is known as a Cladophora ball.
Like most underwater plants, it photosynthesises, it takes in carbon dioxide and releases oxygen as well as consuming nitrates. The moss balls are nearly indestructible – no amount of nudging from your curious fishes will bring these down!
Despite their name, they are in fact not related to moss at all; they are more closely related to algae. The name “Marimo” was coined by the Japanese botanist Takiya Kawakami, a combination of “Mari”, meaning bouncy play ball, and “Mo”, a general term for water plants.
The benefits of a marimo ball
The Marimo moss ball brings with it a variety of benefits to your aquarium:
1. Aesthetics: First of all, the marimo moss balls look great! Looking right at home with other plants in a home aquarium, and provide a very clean yet natural feel to their environment.
Even on their own, moss balls are a nice addition to any themed tank. Our beta fish have always approved the introduction of a moss ball to their home!
2. Reducing Nitrates: Nitrates are produced by fish during the course of their life. The level is usually harmless to them, but this is why it is important to do regular water changes.
However, having a Marimo moss ball in the tank can help reduce the number of nitrates at all times. They feed on these nitrates to survive and grow.
3. Phosphates and particulates: The Moss balls not only provide an active defence against nitrate levels but also a passive one. Their spongy texture allows them to act as a filter, removing phosphates and particulates from the tank, which algae would use to feed and grow on things such as aquarium plants, cutting off sunlight or even on the glass walls themselves.
4. Oxygen: Just like humans fish breath oxygen – fish take their oxygen from the water using their gills (A side fact – Did you know betta fish are one of very few fish that can even take oxygen from above the water’s surface – but that’s another blog post).
As fish breathe they take (and use up) the oxygen in the water and replace it with carbon dioxide. Well guess what? That’s right marimo moss balls take in this waste carbon dioxide and replace it with oxygen. Your fish will be pleased!
5. They are cheap!
6. Easy! Marimo moss balls are so easy to look after. Once you add them to your tank they require no attention!
Marimo Moss Ball Care
Taking care of your marimo moss ball is easy! In most cases you add them to your tank and they will then become part of your aquarium’s aesthetics. Providing both style and helping keep your tank water clean.
However, if you wish for the healthiest marimo moss ball here are a few tips for you…
Light
Marimo balls require low to medium levels of indirect light – too much sunlight can cause them to brown.
If this begins to happen with your moss ball, the best solution is to simply move the ball into an area of the tank with lower light levels.
Water Changes
Take the time during water changes to agitate the moss ball slightly or simply place it on another side. This is to make sure it gets an even amount of light all around and also to retain its round shape.
Floating
Floating is a regular sight for moss balls. Usually, it indicates a trapped air bubble inside, this can be fixed by gently squeezing the ball.
Usually floating happens when you first add a marimo moss ball to the tank. It will usually sink within a few days of being added to a tank.
Don’t worry if your moss ball floats when you first add it to the tank, why not leave it there for your betta fish to investigate?
How to know if your moss ball is deadA dead moss ball can be identified as it will be mostly or completely brown, which indicates it is either completely or mostly unrecoverable. At this point, the moss ball can simply be removed as regular garden/organic waste. There is no way to rejuvenate them at this stage
How do I get my moss ball?
When we ship our moss balls they will come in a heat sealed zip lock bag that was only packed on the day of shipping. We usually ship them with some water in the bag so they can be buoyant.
They should appear GREEN and FLAT due to transport (As they normally get flatten due to shipping).
There will also be a slight odour – like when rain falls on dry land.
We encourage you to give them a rinse under water to clear out any excess cloudiness and also roll them with your hand (like you do with a snot ball)
IF your moss ball arrives BROWN or LOOKS DECAYED It means that it has died (which rarely happens but can happen – thus the reason why we send them via Express/ Sendle/ AusPost Snail Mail)
If this happens please send photos and videos using the Facebook Messenger icon and we will send you a fresh one.
Do you sell kits?
Yes, we will be selling kits. Please send us an enquiry so we can understand your requirements.
We have noticed that a few of competitors are using Shells or Sand that is not suitable for your marimo moss. We urge you to be aware of these as Marimo Moss naturally occurs in acidic regions and the kits that is supplied will not be great for the mosses’ well being.
Reference and image from: https://japanesefightingfish.org/marimo-moss-balls/
How do you send this item?
This plant is usually sent via Snail Australia Post Mail that can take up to one week to reach you. If you like to get it sent via Express Post please message us and we can arrange it. Additional Charges apply.
THIS IS AN AUSSIE GROWN STOCK
Overview
Flame Moss, also known as (Taxiphyllum sp. 'Flame'), originated in South and Southeast Asia. It is a unique type of aquarium plant that grows most unusually. Their shoots grow in a vertical-twisted manner which gives it a flame resemblance.
It has a darker green colour compared to other mosses. It looks gorgeous when attached to a rock or driftwood and can easily enhance the appearance of a tank.
Flame moss's natural habitat is rivers with slow running water and very easy to keep because of their low maintenance.
Description
Flame moss can grow up to 3 to 4 inches long. They can thrive and grow fairly when emersed but even grow much faster when submerged. To maximise the full potential, It is advised to have this plant submerged.
Because of their rhizoids, they were able to absorb nutrients from soil and water.
Aside from providing your fish and shrimp an ideal shade and cover, it can also develop food sources such as biofilm and infusoria.
You can buy Flame Moss in stainless steel, golfball size, or tissue culture.
Keeping Flame Moss
Because of its low maintenance and the ability to thrive in various water conditions, Flame moss will be perfect for most aquarists.
Simply cut the moss into smaller pieces in order to propagate and place it where you want them to start growing.
Flame moss can quickly grow in a well-maintained aquarium. But if you enhance your tank conditions, you can even make it greener and much bushier. An additional supply of CO2 will be the key to achieving it.
Water temperature of 68 to 82°F will be perfect for Flame moss, and the ideal Ph level will be 6 to 7.5
Like Java moss, this plant can grow with low and medium illumination. They can also be kept with or without a CO2 supply.
Try to stay away from an excessive amount of light, particularly direct daylight, to abstain from drying out and sunburn.
Tank Decor
Flame moss has a big role in the world of aquascaping. Because of its dark green appearance, it is commonly used to make a forest vibe in tanks.
They perfectly match with driftwood and stones and provide an excellent cover and hiding spot for your fish and shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Flame Moss have roots?
They have an undeveloped root network that absorbs nutrients from soil and water
Can Flame Moss taxiphyllum live out of water?
Technically the answer is no. But Flame moss can thrive anywhere in your tank. It can still survive even if it's not fully submerged
What are the benefits of Flame moss to my aquarium?
They perfectly match with driftwood and stones and provide an excellent cover and hiding spot for your fish and shrimp.
Flame moss has a big role in the world of aquascaping. Because of its dark green appearance, it is commonly used to make a forest vibe in tanks.
They can also develop food sources such as biofilm and infusoria.
Portion Size: 5x5cm when laid out flat which equates to 2-2.5 grams weight (without excess water)
Anubias Nana Petite is a small-leaved plant from West Africa. It is ideal for foreground placement, and the leaves are dark green and hardy. The plant will not grow much larger than 1.5 inches in length. This specimen is already attached to the rock, so it is ready to put in the aquarium.
Caring For Anubias Nana Petite
Anubias Nana Petite is a hardy plant suitable for all tanks. The plant can grow on wood, or it is sold here with roots attached to rocks. The plant can also propagate by sending out side shoots or dividing its rhizome. Please keep in mind that Anubias rhizome should not be buried in gravel or sand.
Minimum Lighting Required: Low
Temperature Range: 69-86°F
Tank Placement: Foreground
NOTE: Each plant/rock will have a unique look. The photo provides you with an idea of what it will look like and is not a representation of the exact item you will be receiving.
Comes in a 5x5cm portion. It will be around 2-3 grams of moss
Christmas Vesicularia "Mini"grows many delicate shoots with a small branching pattern. Growth is bushy and irregular, with tiny overlapping bright green leaves. It grows rapidly and attaches to hardscape very easily.
Christmas Moss Mini is ideal for filling large mid-ground areas of the aquarium, and will require regular trimming to maintain a tidy appearance due to its high rate of growth. It is exceptionally easy to grow and will thrive under any lighting and in most water conditions. It does not require CO2. Singapore Moss will grow best at temperatures under 25° but can tolerate temperatures as high as 30°.
Cameroon moss, also known as aquatic moss or aquarium plant, is a versatile and visually stunning addition to any aquatic landscape. This soft, delicate moss is native to Cameroon and is highly sought after by aquarium enthusiasts and landscape designers alike.
One of the great benefits of Cameroon moss is that it is easy to care for and can grow in a variety of conditions. It thrives in low to medium light and can be grown on various surfaces such as rocks, driftwood, or substrate. This makes it an excellent choice for beginners or those who want to add a low-maintenance plant to their aquarium.
Moreover, Cameroon moss provides several functional benefits to its environment. It helps to filter water, absorb excess nutrients, and provide oxygen to the surrounding aquatic life. Additionally, it provides a natural habitat for many aquatic animals, such as shrimps and snails, promoting a healthy and harmonious ecosystem.
Cameroon moss also adds a natural and authentic touch to aquariums, aquascapes, and other aquatic environments. Its unique appearance and vibrant green color make it a popular choice for creating beautiful and natural-looking underwater landscapes.
If you're looking for an easy-to-care-for, visually stunning, and functional addition to your aquatic landscape, Cameroon moss is an excellent choice. Its aesthetic and functional benefits make it a popular choice among aquarium enthusiasts and landscape designers alike. So why not add this beautiful aquatic moss to your collection today and create a stunning underwater world?
Portion Size: 5x5cm when laid out flat which equates to 2-2.5 grams weight (without excess water)
Fissidens Fontanus from North America also known as Phoenix Moss and US Fissidens. It grows relatively slow and required CO2 and high light to grow well. It grows best when attached to this moss to rock, stone, or driftwood. It will grow roots and stick to the surface just like any other moss.
CO2: Recommended
Growth Rates: Medium
Difficulty Level: Beginner
Nutrient Substrate: Not Required
Lighting Requirements: Medium - High
Weeping Moss (Vesicularia Ferriei) is a plant that has begun to really grow in popularity within recent years. Being a great alternative to Java moss.
This plant’s unique branching style offers vivarium enthusiasts an interesting take on freshwater aquariums. The caretaking and propagation of this moss are much like many other common aquatic mosses and the distinctive hanging look this species of Vesicularia offers is sure to turn heads.
Family: Hypnaceae
Common Names: Weeping Moss
Habitat: Freshwater Height: 1 inch thick
PH Range: 5.0 to 6.0
Temperature: 60°F to 70°F
What Is Weeping Moss?
Vesicularia Ferriei is a species of moss that grows in an outward fashion. This moss is mainly aquatic but will survive for a period of time on land if the humidity is high enough. Commonly referred to as weeping moss, this bryophyte is great for decoration around hardscapes giving off a mini tree look. Weeping moss is the perfect substitute for common mosses and easily adds a level of diversity to an enclosure that will easily set a tank apart for those interested in trying something new.
Willow moss (Fontinalis Antipyretica) is a great vivarium plant to have in aquatic enclosures. Its ability to absorb minerals, tolerate lower temperatures as well as low light requirements, are all reasons to consider using it in a vivarium. The pleasing look of this moss is great for adding diversity to underwater settings and its close resemblance to other more familiar mosses makes it an easy transitional plant to pair with others. The caretaking for this plant is minimal, making it a wonderful plant to have in any level expertises possessions. Scientific Name: Fontinalis Antipyretica Family: Fontinalaceae Common Names: Willow Moss, Greater Water Moss, Common Water Moss, Antifever Fontinalis Moss Habitat: Cool Water, Freshwater Height: 24 inches Tall PH Range: 5.5 to 7.5 Temperature: 59°F to 82°F What Is Willow Moss? Fontinalis Antipyretica is a species of moss in the Fontinalaceae family. This moss is commonly referred to as willow moss due to its willow tree-like appearance. Though this moss is not a fairly new bryophyte to the world, it has recently become a more sought after plant to put in cooler water aquariums. Another reason for its recent rise in popularity may be due to the fact that Fontinalis shares a lot of visual similarities to the very well known plant, Java Moss. Willow moss (Fontinalis Antipyretica) care guide Willow Moss Facts Fontinalis Antipyretica is commonly referred to as Willow Moss due to its striking resemblance to willow trees. This plant is also commonly known as Greater Water Moss, Common Water Moss, and Antifever Fontinalis Moss. An interesting fact about Fontinalis Antipyretica is its scientific name in Latin translates to “the water moss that stops a fire.” Not quite sure if it, in fact, lives up to its name but I can’t imagine many fires having much luck underwater… So willow moss has my vote!
Description Willow moss has a very common look when comparing it to other aquatic mosses. As I stated earlier, this plant closely resembles Java moss. The distinguishable difference between the two is the size of the leaves and branches of each plant. Willow moss looks significantly larger, bearing a thicker branch and stem system as well as bigger leaves sprouting from it. Fontinalis generally comes in various shades of green. The more sunlight it receives typically makes it darker. If the moss starts to brown or appear tannish in color, it either isn’t receiving enough light or above water for too long. The oval-shaped leaves that grow from willow moss can get up to a quarter-inch in length. The stringy stems that branch out from the base are firm, spinely, and can get up to 24 inches in length. Habitat Willow moss is thought to be native to the upper region of North America but can be found in Europe, Asia, and Africa. The environment this freshwater plant is accustom to is fast-flowing rivers and springs. This bryophyte is often found caught between stones and fallen debris in the wild. One thing I find extremely interesting about this plant is its preference to tolerate lower temperatures than other mosses. Willow Moss is a cold water thriving plant, making it great for aquariums that house cold water inhabitants like Goldfish. Considerable temperatures will range between 59 and 82 degrees Fahrenheit. pH Preference Another well-liked feature with willow moss in the aquascaping hobby is it’s hardy tolerance to various types of water conditions. Most bryophytes typically like to stay around the acidic side of the PH scale… But this moss can tolerate PH levels as high as 8.5! That’s an awesome good-to-know fact if your current tank has hard water conditions and you really the idea of adding a tolerable moss to the enclosure. A thriving PH range to consider keeping this plant around would be anything higher than 5.5 but no higher than 7.5.
Vivarium Type This type of moss will do great in a variety of vivarium types. When deciding if rather or not to use willow moss in a particular type of enclosure, Be sure to go with setups that have some level of aquatic areas. Here are recommended vivariums this plant will do well in: Paludariums – Half aquatic/ half terrain-based enclosure. Ripariums – Mostly aquatic-based enclosure with some terrain features present. Aquarium – Fully aquatic-based enclosure with little to no dry terrain. Vivarium Placement When it comes to vivarium placement for this type of Fontinalaceae, it can go in a number of places as long as it remains fully submerged in water. Being a centerfold type of plant, it would do really well-accenting hardscapes in the foreground area of the enclosure. Place it around rocks or tie it to wood branches and allow it to fully establish itself before pruning. It should go in an area that receives some level of light and it will eventually creep its way horizontally making a nice lushes carpet. Substrate Substrates can play a role in helping willow moss anchor to the desired position. Any type of aquarium media will do fine for this moss since it will not need it to absorb nutrients. As I mentioned earlier, Fontinalis can latch on to any type of firm surface so the substrate is not an absolute necessity when caring for this plant. Rocks, wood, sand, gravel, and dirt are all-sufficient substrates that can be used to help lock willow moss into place. Lighting The chilly rivers this plant is native to have shaded and indirect sunspots this plant spends most of its time on. Fontinalis Antipyretica can handle moderately bright lighting scenarios but will do best in lower light elements. Avoid direct sunlight and bright light sources. Sunlight could alter the temperature of the vivarium resulting in a warmer, more undesirable water condition. This moss should be given moderate to low levels of artificial lights since it usually takes shelter in shallow riverbeds in the wild. Reference bantam.earth/willow-moss-fontinalis-antipyretica/
Portion Size: 5x5cm when laid out flat which equates to 2-2.5 grams weight (without excess water)