A common aquatic plant used for decorating fish tanks is Java moss.java moss can be kept in a tank.It is easy to grow and compatible with most fish species, making it a great plant for beginners.
Step 1: Use a tank larger than 5 US gal.
Make sure you have a freshwater tank ready because Java moss can't survive in a marine aquarium for long.As moss starts to grow in your tank, it could crowd your fish.Java moss likes freshwater even though it has a low salt content.You may need to add chemicals from an aquarium store to make tap water safe for plants and fish.
Step 2: The water should be kept between 70 and 75 F.
It's a good idea to put a heater in the tank to keep it at a consistent temperature.Java moss can grow at higher temperatures, but it will grow slower than at lower temperatures.Make sure the temperature of your tank doesn't go up or down.You can easily check the floating thermometers in pet stores or aquarium shops.
Step 3: The water should have a pH level between 8 and 8.
You can use a home test to check the acidity of your fish tank.Store-bought chemicals can be used to raise or lower the pH.When adding chemicals to the tank, follow the instructions carefully.There are test kits and strips for sale at aquarium specialty stores.Adding shells or rocks to your tank can raise your pH.A high pH level is caused by wood and moss.When you perform a water change, you should test the water's pH once a week.
Step 4: The tank should have a filter in it.
It will help keep your water clean and it will create a current in your tank.Water circulation makes it easier for moss to grow quickly.The moss's roots are establishing a weak current.A strong current could cause a problem.Keep the moss out of the filter.
Step 5: Provide overhead lights.
Java moss is not picky about the lighting conditions it is exposed to.If you want your moss to grow quickly, use bright lights.Low lights are used for moss with a darker color.A desk lamp secured above your tank will work for a short time.There will be more algae in your tank if the lights are brighter.
Step 6: If you want the moss to float, place it on top of the water.
The moss should be left on the water's surface.It will grow into a floating plant.The moss could catch in a filter if it moves around the tank.
Step 7: If you want the moss to stick to something, tie it to a rock.
Wrap dark thread or fishing line around the moss and tie a knot.The roots will adhere to the rock or wood with the added security from the line.You can remove the thread with a pair of scissors, but it takes about 1 month for the moss to adhere.Attach moss to the top of the piece of driftwood and make an underwater tree.
Step 8: If you want to make a wall or carpet, place the moss between 2 pieces of plastic mesh.
Spread your moss evenly on one side of the mesh.The other piece of mesh should be placed on top.To tie the meshes together, use a needle and thread.The moss carpet can be created by laying the mesh on top of the bottom.Attach the cups to the mesh pieces and place them on the walls of the aquarium.The materials you use in your tank should be non-toxic.
Step 9: If you put the moss in the tank, don't move it around.
Don't disturb the moss when you put it in your tank.It will take a couple weeks for it to get used to the conditions in your tank.Your moss could grow slower if there are different spots in your tank.
Step 10: The moss needs to be trimmed every week with a pair of scissors.
If your moss is getting too long, reach into your aquarium and cut it.You can shape the moss you want.If you have made a tree, you may want to keep the moss neat.It is possible to let moss grow freely, but it may restrict water flow or make it hard for fish to move around your aquarium.Put the scissors in your tank if you don't want to kill them.Plants and fish can be harmed by added chemicals.
Step 11: The moss needs to be vacuumed weekly.
If you want to start the water flow, you need to move the siphon up and down.To suck food or plant particles, hold the siphon near your moss.Attach the end of the hose with your thumb.20 percent of the water can be drained from the bucket.
Step 12: If the moss starts to grow on it, replace it.
The water has poor circulation and bright lights.Your moss may get into your aquarium.It is very difficult to get rid of moss that has grown on it.If you want to keep the moss, use a toothbrush to scrub it.Don't remove it from its base.
Step 13: If you want to grow it, cut off pieces of the moss.
Place the moss cut with a pair of scissors somewhere else in the tank.The cutting will grow wherever it is attached.