“Willow Moss” - Fontinalis antipyretica

1 Portion = 2 ounce cup (about a ping pong ball size)

Willow Moss (Fontinalis antipyretica) is a hardy aquatic moss commonly found in freshwater aquariums and ponds. It's known for its delicate, trailing, and soft appearance, resembling the texture of willow tree branches—hence the name "Willow Moss." This moss is widely appreciated for its ability to thrive in a range of conditions and its versatility in aquascaping.

Key Features:

• Appearance: Willow Moss has dark green, feathery fronds that grow in long, flowing strands. Its leaves are arranged in a triangular or fan-like pattern along its stems, creating a soft, dense mat as it grows.
• Growth: It grows relatively slowly but can cover surfaces such as rocks, driftwood, and substrate over time. It's often used in aquascaping to create natural, mossy textures.

Care Requirements:

• Lighting: Fontinalis antipyretica can grow in low to moderate lighting. While higher light levels can encourage faster growth, it is well-suited for low-light, low-tech setups, making it ideal for beginners.
• Water Conditions: It thrives in cooler water but is highly adaptable to various temperature ranges. Its ability to survive in different water conditions, including lower temperatures, sets it apart from many other aquarium plants.
• CO₂ & Fertilization: While not essential, CO₂ supplementation can encourage denser growth, and liquid fertilization may help maintain its color and vigor. In low-tech tanks, it can grow just fine without additional CO₂ or fertilizers.
• Substrate: It does not need to be planted in a substrate, as it attaches itself to hard surfaces like rocks, driftwood, or decorations. You can tie it to surfaces using thread or fishing line until it establishes itself.

Ideal Conditions:

• Temperature: 15–24°C (59–75°F), though it can tolerate higher temperatures in tropical aquariums.
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard