I picked up a bag of java moss at the auction. Once I got it in the tank, I have to admit it wasnt quite what I was expecting. The main reason I got this type of moss is because I was told and have read that this is one of the few if not only moss my cichlids wont turn it into a salad bar.
I was hoping for something that had more of a blanket or carpet effect that would gradually encase my rocks and offer the bennifets that come with live plants to the tank.
If I am just impatient and this will level out and hug the rock ok, but would like to know if anyone has experience with a moss that reacts the way I explained. I still want the focus of the tank to be my cichlids not alot of bushy green.
Keep in mind I dont tend on breeding so dont need the cover for fry.
Thanks in advance for any information that could help achieve this.
P.S. Might just have a very nice bush of Java Moss for someone to adopt soon :)
You need to use either fish line or cotton thread (preferable) tie the moss on the wood or rock. It'll takes a while for the moss to attached on the surface. You still need give them a hair cut once a while depends on your tank's condition, otherwise the moss will grow outward and becomes a big bushy green like the one that you bought from the auction. ;)
I have some balled up, some tied to ornaments, some tied itself to my filter intake, and some blanketed out like a carpet :)
Just shape it! it will go pretty much wherever you desire it to go...and other places ;)
It's quite a challenge to shape up Java Moss with Goldfish in the tank :P
They keep messing it (without eating it).
I originally tied it up to driftwood with cotton thread, but the thread dissolved to fast for the moss to grab a hold. I've now re-attached it firmly with black fishing line. This line will always be there but it's a matter of short time before the moss completely covers (and hides) it.
So far it looks okay, but I admit it's not quite growing in a carpet form, it's a bit all over the place. Again, mostly due to fish messing it up :)
I pulled it out completely, I will look for another Java fern for color but wasnt happy with the moss.
At least I tried so if anyone wants this moss it is free for the taking, I have a fair amount of it, otherwise I will have to dispose of it.
Let me know if you want it I live in the Nepean area.