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fissidens moss

Scientific Name: Fissidens adianthoides

Family: Fissidentaceae

Category: Moss

Growth: Nonvascular

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Fissidens fontanus: Phoenix Moss

Fissidens fontanus, commonly known as Phoenix Moss, is a popular aquatic moss prized for its feather-like appearance and ease of care in aquariums.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Fissidens fontanus (Bachelot de la Pylaie) Steudel
  • Common Names: Phoenix Moss, US Fissidens, Palm Moss
  • Family: Fissidentaceae
  • Class: Bryopsida
  • Synonyms:
    • Octodiceras julianum (DC.) Brid.
    • Fissidens julianus (DC.) Schimp.
    • Octodiceras fontanum (Bach. Pyl.)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Fissidens fontanus originates from North America, specifically the USA.
  • Related species are found as far as Australia.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • This moss has a feather-like appearance with tight, deep green fronds.
  • It is known to be a slow-growing moss, slower than many other aquarium mosses like flame moss.
  • It clings to driftwood or rocks with its rhizoids, forming roundish cushions or lawn-like coverings.

Ecological Role

  • Fissidens fontanus is considered an easy plant to keep. It can grow in almost any condition, thriving in various water conditions.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • It is often used in aquariums with shrimp, indicating that it is generally considered shrimp-safe.

Further Information

  • BISON Web Link: http://bison.usgs.ornl.gov/api/scientificName/Fissidens%20appalachensis
  • ITIS Web Link