Moss balls – decorative and useful element in the aquarium
Key data on moss balls
- Scientific name: Cladophora aegagrophila
- Country of origin: Europe and Asia
- Genus: Aegagropila
- Height of growth: up to 20 cm in diameter
- Temperature: 15 – 28°C, optimally 14 – 24 C
- Water hardness: pH value: 5.0 – 8.0
Piotr719, Gałęzatka kulista (Cladophora aegagropila), CC BY-SA 3.0
Moss balls are an asset to any aquarium. Due to the evenly round shape and the fluffy surface, they are among the unusual design elements.
From a biological point of view, the plant is not one of the conventional aquarium plants, but is assigned to algae. This is a special type of algae that forms threads. The round shape is created by intertwining the threads. The balls do not form roots and can reach a diameter of up to 20 cm in good conditions.
It is not just the design value that makes the moss balls exciting for the aquarist. The plant is also beneficial for the quality of the water and the microorganisms. It is practical to use and easy to maintain.
Install moss balls in the pool
Moss balls are a practical and modern design element. When installed sensibly, it sets aesthetic accents in the pool. Since the plants grow very slowly, they only change the design slowly and thus form a reliable decoration.
The green algae are most effective when they remain mobile on the ground. They come into their own best in the foreground, if necessary in the middle ground. If they lie between jagged stones, roots or dynamic plants, the regular shape ensures creative calm and balance.
If necessary, the balls can also be untied. The best way to do this is to cut it open and attach it to the object with a transparent nylon cord (fishing line).
Benefits for water and residents
Moss ball Photo: Mario Braun
Green algae are not only beautiful to look at, but also useful for the water quality and the inhabitants of the aquarium. Since they produce a fluffy surface, airborne organic particles easily adhere to them and bacteria can multiply.
These microorganisms cause the reduction of nitrite and nitrate pollution and thus ensure the biological purification of the water. In addition to water changes and filter systems, the plants are therefore a useful aid in aquarium care.
On the other hand, the deposits serve as food for the residents in the tank. Hungry fish and shrimp visit and graze on the moss balls.
They also offer fish and dwarf shrimp a safe place to hide and spawn. For a change from everyday aquarium life, the fish play with the balls and roll them through the tank.
Good care for beautiful balls
Moss balls are undemanding plants that can reach a ripe old age under ideal living conditions. The light requirement of the algae is relatively low. But if the lighting is good, they develop into excellent oxygen suppliers. The water temperature must be taken into account. The right one must not be too low and not too high. Degrees between 14 – 24° C are ideal. Otherwise the spherical shape can change unintentionally.
In order to maintain the attractiveness of the moss balls, the typical threads of algae must not die off. This is achieved through movement. Since there is no natural wave movement in the aquarium, the plants often have to be turned and placed in a different position.
Since the fluffy surface easily picks up dirt particles, it should be carefully washed off from time to time. The action supports the growth of algae and serves to maintain shape.
Easy propagation
If the moss balls do not form offshoots themselves, offshoots can be removed by pinching them off. To keep the new green algae in shape, roll them between your palms regularly. The separated parts can also be tied to roots, stones and other objects.