- Sku: 8835340
- Vendor: Squeaky's Aquatics
Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri)
Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri) is the easiest, most versatile moss in the hobby and a must-have for shrimp keepers and aquascapers. It clings to wood, rock, and mesh, needs no CO2 or special light, and grows into soft green cushions, carpets, and walls. It is nearly impossible to kill, which makes it perfect for beginners and a favorite hideout and grazing surface for shrimp and fry.
Browse the rest of our live aquarium plants to build a full planted layout.
Choose Your Form
| Cup | A portion of loose Java Moss, ready to spread, tie, or glue wherever you want it. Best for attaching to driftwood and rock or seeding your own moss wall. |
| Flat Pack | Java Moss pre-grown on a mesh mat for an instant carpet or moss wall. Just rinse, anchor it in place, and let it fill in. No tying required. |
Care Guide
- Care level: Very easy, ideal for beginners
- Lighting: Low to high; low light grows it slower and looser, brighter light keeps it dense
- Placement: Attach to driftwood, rock, or mesh; foreground carpet, moss wall, or hardscape accent
- Growth: Moderate; trim to shape and it bounces right back
- CO2: Not required
- Attaching: Tie with thread or cotton, or use a dab of cyanoacrylate gel glue, until it grips on its own
- Propagation: Just split off a piece and reattach anywhere
Specifications
| Common Name | Java Moss |
| Scientific Name | Taxiphyllum barbieri |
| Family | Hypnaceae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Plant Type | True aquatic moss |
| Care Level | Very easy |
| Lighting | Low to high |
| CO2 | Not required |
| Placement | Hardscape, carpet, or moss wall |
| Temperature | 68 to 82°F (tolerates a wide range) |
| pH | 5.5 to 8.0 |
| Pickup | In-store only |
Best Uses & Companions
Java Moss shines in shrimp and nano tanks and softens any hardscape:
- A grazing and hiding haven for freshwater shrimp and snails, including Neocaridina shrimp
- Cover and a spawning surface for fry in breeding and betta tanks
- Carpets, moss walls, and trees over driftwood and rock
Recommended Supplies
- Seachem Flourish Glue to attach moss to wood and rock in seconds
- Malaysian Driftwood as a natural moss anchor
- More live aquarium plants
FAQ
How do I attach Java Moss?
Spread a thin layer over wood or rock and tie it down with cotton thread or fishing line, or tack it with a dab of cyanoacrylate gel glue. Within a few weeks it grips on its own and the thread can be removed.
What is the difference between the Cup and the Flat Pack?
The Cup is loose moss you place and attach yourself. The Flat Pack is moss already grown onto a mesh mat for an instant carpet or wall, no tying needed.
Does it need CO2 or fertilizer?
No. Java Moss grows in almost any freshwater tank without CO2. A little liquid fertilizer and stronger light just make it grow faster and denser.
Is it shrimp safe?
Yes. It is non-toxic and one of the best plants for shrimp, trapping biofilm they graze on and giving fry a place to hide.
Have a question?
Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri)
