Spiky Moss (Taxiphyllum sp. “Spiky”) Tissue Culture

Spiky Moss is a very hardy moss that is distinctive by its relatively thick fronds and bright green color!

Spiky Moss (Taxiphyllum sp. "Spiky") is a relatively newly-cultivated moss species that is growing in popularity among aquarium enthusiasts. It is a great plant to keep in almost any freshwater aquarium due to its low lighting requirements and ease of care. It grows into bushy patches that are always a favorite hiding place for shrimp and fish fry. It also provides cultivation areas for tiny live food sources such as infusoria and biofilm. Once established in the aquarium, Spiky Moss fronds appear very bushy with pointy ends. Like most mosses, it can grow in a variety of conditions and is an excellent choice for the aquarium, paludarium, or terrarium.

This is a very easy plant to keep without much extra care, but like all plants, it can benefit from CO₂ supplementation, although this is not required.  Like many mosses, it does not typically respond positively to most chemical plant supplements.  Many aquarists report success with this moss purely through keeping a well-maintained aquarium with no supplementation.

What We Like About This Plant:

• Tissue cultures contain no unwanted pest animals or algae
• Excellent (and potentially more attractive) alternative to Java Moss
• Can be attached to almost any aquarium décor or left floating in loose form
• Low light requirements
• Little to no supplements needed

Care Guidelines:

• Temperature: 54° - 93° F (12° - 34° C), although the middle of this range is much more ideal for long-term care
• pH: 5.0 - 8.0
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• Origin: Cultivated in nurseries, but indigenous to Asia
• Aquarium placement: Any
• Care: Easy