Java moss

Description

Vesicularia dubyana is a well-known aquatic plant in aquarium hobby for over 50 years and is often referred to as "Java moss". However, it has been found that the moss commonly known as Java moss or V. dubyana is actually Taxiphyllum barbieri. This was confirmed by Japanese expert Zennosuke Iwatsuki in 1982 and further research has shown that Vesicularia dubyana refers to a different species of moss, commonly referred to as "Singapore moss". The plant grows emersed or submersed with a creeping habit and has narrower leaves than Taxiphyllum barbieri. Its leaf cells are longer and it ramifies more irregularly. It develops sporophytes (spore capsules) underwater in the aquarium, unlike Taxiphyllum barbieri. Vesicularia dubyana is considered an undemanding aquarium moss that can be used in various ways, such as tied onto driftwood or rocks. It grows relatively slowly and requires moderate lighting to ramify well. Its finely ramified branches give it a decorative look and regular trimming maintains its form easily.