Moss Taiwanese

Moss Taiwanese, scientific name Taxiphyllum alternans. In nature, it is widely distributed in areas with a temperate and subtropical climate in the southeastern United States and East Asia. It grows on moist soil at the water’s edge, on flooded and semi-flooded snags, stones, on rocks near waterfalls and other wet places.

The reason why this moss was called “Taiwanese” is unknown. Initially, in the wild nature of this island, he did not meet.

Outwardly, it resembles its close relative, Java moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri), but unlike it, it has more dense branching in bright light. At the micro level, there are more differences: Taxiphyllum alternans has tiny teeth only at the tip of the leaf, while Taxiphyllum barbieri has small teeth along the entire edge of the leaf.

On sale you can also find Taiwan Moss “Mini”, which is positioned as a miniature version of Taiwan Moss. However, there is no reliable data on the relationship of these species.

Taxiphyllum alternans is considered an easy-to-keep moss. It thrives in a variety of conditions, both in aquariums and paludariums. Not picky about the hydrochemical composition of water and the level of illumination. In the design it is used to decorate rocks, stones and snags. Less commonly used on open substrates, because it is poorly fixed on them and, due to its structure, is quickly covered with organic waste that gets stuck among the branches.