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Description
Fontinalis Antipyretica, commonly known as common water moss or giant moss, is a type of aquatic moss that can be found in freshwater streams, rivers, and ponds throughout the world. It is characterized by its feathery and delicate foliage, and its vibrant green coloration. Due to its aesthetic appeal, Fontinalis Antipyretica is commonly used in aquariums and water gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Bryophyta (Mosses) |
| Class | Bryopsida (True Mosses) |
| Order | Fontinalales |
| Family | Fontinalaceae |
| Genus | Fontinalis |
Appearance
Fontinalis Antipyretica typically grows in dense mats on rocks or submerged logs in freshwater bodies. It has fine, feathery branches that range from 3 to 10 cm in length. The branches are usually arranged in a flat, fan-like pattern and are a vibrant green color. The leaves are small and scale-like, and the stems are thin and wiry. The moss has no true roots, but it can anchor itself to surfaces using rhizoids.
Care Guide
Fontinalis Antipyretica is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are the optimal conditions for its growth:- Water: Fontinalis Antipyretica grows best in soft, slightly acidic water with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Fertilization: Since it is a moss, Fontinalis Antipyretica does not require fertilization. However, it can benefit from the addition of small amounts of liquid fertilizer.- Soil: This aquatic moss does not require soil. It can be anchored to rocks or submerged logs using fishing line or nylon thread.- Sunlight: Fontinalis Antipyretica prefers low to medium light conditions. Direct sunlight can cause the moss to bleach and die.- Hardiness Zones: Fontinalis Antipyretica is hardy in zones 3-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fontinalis Antipyretica is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to algae overgrowth if it is exposed to excess light or nutrients. To prevent algae growth, provide low to medium light conditions and avoid overfeeding fish in the aquarium.
Habitat
Fontinalis Antipyretica can be found in freshwater streams, rivers, and ponds throughout the world. It is a common inhabitant of cool, clear water bodies with rocky substrates. This moss is an important part of the aquatic ecosystem, providing shelter and food for a variety of aquatic organisms.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Fontinalis Antipyretica be grown in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Fontinalis Antipyretica can be grown in a terrarium as long as it is provided with adequate moisture and light.
Q: Is Fontinalis Antipyretica suitable for use in a pond?
A: Yes, Fontinalis Antipyretica is suitable for use in a pond. It can be anchored to rocks or submerged logs using fishing line or nylon thread.
Q: How fast does Fontinalis Antipyretica grow?
A: Fontinalis Antipyretica grows relatively slowly. It can take several months for it to form dense mats.
Q: How do I anchor Fontinalis Antipyretica to a surface?
A: Fontinalis Antipyretica can be anchored to rocks or submerged logs using fishing line or nylon thread. Wrap the moss around the surface and secure it with the line or thread.
Related Plants
– Vesicularia Dubyana (Java Moss)- Taxiphyllum Barbieri (Java Fern)- Riccia Fluitans (Crystalwort)
References
– Flora of North America. (n.d.). Fontinalis antipyretica. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250099173- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Fontinalis antipyretica. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=250099173- Tropica. (n.d.). Fontinalis antipyretica. Retrieved from https://tropica.com/en/plants/plantdetails/Fontinalisantipyretica(030TC)/4465
