Peacock moss is a popular aquatic plant that enhances the beauty of various planted setups. Its unique growth pattern and vibrant green color make it a desirable addition to aquascapes, terrariums, and paludariums. This moss provides both aesthetic value and functional benefits.
What is Peacock Moss?
Peacock moss, scientifically known as Taxiphyllum sp. ‘Peacock’, is a distinct aquatic moss characterized by its soft, feathery, and fan-like growth habit. The fronds often display a velvety appearance and can form compact, dense structures. Its common name comes from the way its branches fan outwards, resembling a peacock’s tail feathers.
Originating from Southeast Asia, Taxiphyllum sp. ‘Peacock’ is a sought-after plant among aquascapers due to its emerald green coloration and ability to create intricate underwater landscapes. While sometimes confused with Selaginella uncinata, another plant nicknamed “peacock moss” due to its iridescent blue-green foliage, the aquatic moss specifically refers to the Taxiphyllum species, which exhibits a softer texture and more compact growth.
Caring for Peacock Moss
Lighting
Peacock moss adapts well to various light conditions, thriving in low to medium light environments. Moderate lighting encourages healthy growth and helps maintain its compact form. Intense lighting can lead to faster growth and more defined triangular-shaped fronds. However, excessive light can also promote algae growth on the moss.
Water Parameters
Maintaining stable and clean water is important for peacock moss. It thrives in cooler water temperatures, ideally between 65°F and 77°F (18°C and 26°C). Higher temperatures can cause the moss to wilt, brown, and lose its characteristic shape. Peacock moss adapts to a range of water hardness, performing well in soft and moderately hard water. The preferred pH range is between 5.0 and 7.5.
Substrate and Attachment
Peacock moss does not root into the substrate like many other aquatic plants. Instead, it attaches to various surfaces in the aquatic environment. To establish it, attach it to hardscape elements such as driftwood or rocks. Common methods include using fishing line, cotton thread, or aquarium-safe super glue (gel-based). Spread the moss evenly over the surface and secure it until it adheres, which typically takes a few weeks.
For moss walls or carpets, fine mesh can sandwich the moss, secured with zip ties or sewing thread. Over time, the moss will grow through the mesh, creating a lush, uniform appearance. Floating the moss loosely is also an option, providing flexibility in placement.
Temperature and CO2
While peacock moss can grow without carbon dioxide (CO2) supplementation, providing CO2 enhances its growth speed and density. CO2 injection leads to more compact and bushier growth. Even in low-tech setups, the moss will grow, but CO2 promotes optimal development.
Fertilization
Peacock moss absorbs nutrients directly from the water column. Regular fertilization with a balanced liquid fertilizer, particularly those rich in macronutrients and micronutrients, promotes robust health and vibrant growth. Use diluted, half-strength fertilizers and avoid over-fertilization, as this can harm the foliage and contribute to algae issues. Consistent nutrient availability supports its lush development.
Using Peacock Moss in Your Setup
Peacock moss offers diverse applications in aquascaping, terrariums, and paludariums, enhancing visual appeal and environmental function. Its dense, soft texture provides shelter and hiding places for small fish, fry, and shrimp. It also offers a surface for beneficial biofilm, which serves as a food source for aquatic inhabitants.
This moss is well-suited for creating design elements such as moss trees, where it’s attached to driftwood to mimic miniature trees. It can also form lush moss walls in the background of a tank, adding depth and a natural green backdrop. When spread over the substrate, peacock moss can form a verdant carpet, providing a soft foreground. Regular trimming helps maintain its shape and encourages denser growth, preventing lower parts from becoming shaded.
Common Problems and Solutions
Algae growth is a common issue when cultivating peacock moss, often caused by excessive light or nutrient imbalances. To address this, reduce lighting duration or intensity, aiming for 6 to 8 hours daily. Manual removal of algae and introducing algae-eating invertebrates like certain snails or shrimp can help control outbreaks. Proper water circulation can further prevent algae from settling on the moss.
Browning or melting of peacock moss often indicates poor water quality, nutrient deficiencies, or sudden environmental changes. Maintaining stable water parameters, including temperature, pH, and hardness, prevents stress. Ensure adequate, but not excessive, fertilization to provide necessary nutrients. If sections brown, gently trim affected areas to encourage new growth.
Sparse growth or a lack of vigor can stem from insufficient light, CO2, or nutrient levels. Assess lighting to ensure it meets the low to medium requirements. While not strictly necessary, CO2 supplementation can boost growth density. Ensure the moss receives adequate liquid fertilizers. Should attached moss detach, re-secure it using methods like fishing line or super glue.