What is java mosses purpose and can it help my cichlid tank?

[Johnsbra123]

I just haven't had the time to research it but I think it would be good for my cichlid tank, Mbuna cichlids, and can it help with my lake tanganyika tank?

[makatak123]

Well like all plants java moss helps with the water. I always had java moss in my tanks and the fish liked to swim through it but they were not cichlids,

[mnemenoi]

Java moss is an epiphytic plant that can absorb some nutrients (including Nitrates) from the water column. It can assist in producing various microorganisms that young fish can feed upon if it is dense enough.

I utilize a variety of plants in my tanganyikan tank (Anubias, Vallisneria, and various mosses), but in hard water tanks their effectiveness as water purifiers depends mostly on your lighting and is far more effective if CO2 injected. This will not work in most hard water tanks as the CO2 will lower the Ph and can cause very violent shifts if turned off overnight.

I would certainly recommend adding plants if they are more pleasing to you and to diversify your visual image of the aquarium and many do actually come from the lakes themselves. As to their effectiveness as water purifiers, I would highly doubt anything beyond a minor assistance. Try out a few and see which your fish prefer (and not eat) and at what areas in the tank they do well in. Rooted plants can be protected with stones and anubias and mosses tied to rocks.

I think they look terrific and are far more stunning then the plastic alternatives. Certainly research the types commonly employed in similar tanks affectively and research your fishes dietary desires before placing in the tank, but good luck and I'm certain you can do it and be very happy with the effects.

[Johnsbra123]

I have real plants in there now, should I add java moss?

[barrettsline]

I have real plants in there now, should I add java moss?

Define "real plants"

[Johnsbra123]

Plants that are living. Have roots. Not plastic.

[barrettsline]

definition approved.

Do you know what type you currently have? What is your lighting setup on this aquarium?

[Terrybo]

Java moss is popular with breeders of live-bearers like guppies and mollies because it allows the fry to hide and not be eaten.

[makatak123]

My fry love to hide in it, its mostly used in breeding tanks but I have it in all my tanks.

[Geral]

My fry love to hide in it, its mostly used in breeding tanks but I have it in all my tanks.

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