Fontinalis

Spring Moss, Key Moss or Fontinalis, scientific name Fontinalis antipyretica. It is found everywhere throughout the Northern Hemisphere in flowing and stagnant water bodies (streams, rivers, lakes, swamps). etc.). Popular in the aquarium hobby for many years. Recommended mainly for cold water aquariums.

Very variable, the appearance of moss is highly dependent on growing conditions. There are also several forms of this species that differ from each other when growing in the same conditions. A sample with long shoots, reaching a length of up to 50-60 cm, is considered a classic. The lanceolate-shaped emerald leaves have an opposite arrangement of three on one tier and are close to each other. As it grows, it forms dense clumps.

Another popular variety is called the giant Fontinalis (Fontinalis antipyretica var. Gigantea). It grows mainly in stagnant water bodies (shady forest lakes, backwaters of rivers) and is distinguished by larger leaves with a blunt tip.

Fontinalis is unpretentious and perfectly adapts to growth in various conditions. However, the most favorable environment is considered to be soft cool water not higher than 18 ° C. With the help of a rhizoid, it can be attached both to the ground (preferably consisting of large particles) and to the surface of snags, rough stones. Propagated by simple division of a shoot or cluster.