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Must-Have Mosses and their benefits

by Emily Dourm May 03, 2024 2 min read

Must-Have Mosses and their benefits

Moss is essential for a shrimp tank to function, especially if you’re trying to breed  shrimp. There are plenty of benefits to moss in general. For one, the moss provides a safe place for shrimplets or fry to hide. Secondly, it provides more surface area to your tank, allowing an additional place for your shrimp. Biofilm often accumulates on moss, providing the perfect place for your shrimp to graze. Let’s jump into some different types of mosses, their benefits, and their differences.

Java Moss (Taxiphyllum ‘barbieri’)

Java Moss

When asked, “What is the most essential part of a successful shrimp tank?” we will always respond with three key factors: leaf matter, Java Moss, and a piece of driftwood. Of these, Java Moss is our number one.

It acts as a natural filter and aids in maintaining water quality by reducing harmful substances like ammonia and nitrates. Its dense structure provides ideal shelter for baby shrimp, increasing their chances of survival. Additionally, Java Moss fosters the growth of microorganisms vital for the well-being of young shrimp. Easy to care for and propagate, it's a perfect choice even for beginners.

Main Benefits:

  • Helps convert toxins and heavy metals into safe organics
  • Promotes oxygen-rich water
  • Provides hiding places for shrimp and baby shrimp
  • Creates a natural feeding ground for baby shrimp
  • Reduces stress by providing extra surface area

Spiky Moss (Taxiphyllum sp. ‘Spiky’)

Spiky Moss

Spiky Moss often resembles Christmas Moss but with slightly larger branching fronds. It provides excellent refuge and grazing areas for shrimp and fry, absorbs excess nutrients like ammonia and nitrates, and contributes to oxygenation and natural filtration.

Flame Moss (Taxiphyllum sp. ‘Flame Moss’)

Flame Moss

Flame Moss stands out for its vertical, flame-like growth pattern. It’s easy to cultivate in various tank conditions, and though it grows slowly, it can carpet driftwood and rocks beautifully over time.

Peacock Moss (Taxiphyllum ‘Peacock’)

Peacock Moss

The Peacock Moss features softer, velvet-like fronds and provides ample surface area for shrimp grazing and shelter. It’s hardy, easy to grow, and suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists.

Bonus: Sußwassertang (Subwassertang)

Sußwassertang

Sußwassertang is one of the most surface-area-rich plants available, making it perfect for shrimp tanks. It’s slow to establish but then grows vigorously, providing oxygen-rich water, hiding spots, and natural feeding grounds for shrimp and fry.

Emily Dourm
Emily Dourm


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