Fissidens fontanus, affectionately known as Phoenix Moss, is the moss that whispers enchantments into the nooks and crannies of your aquarium. With delicate, feathery fronds that unfurl like tiny emerald feathers, this slow-growing beauty attaches to driftwood, stone, or mesh with quiet confidence, forming lush, velvety mats that ripple in the current like underwater ferns. Native to North America, this moss is a favorite among aquascapers for its intricate texture and fairy-tale vibes.
Whether you’re building a moss wall, carpeting a shaded aquascape, or adding mysterious detail to hardscape, Fissidens fontanus delivers an elegant, understated drama. It thrives in lower light and cooler water, making it perfect for shrimp tanks, nano setups, or shaded forest-style aquascapes.
Key Features:
🌿 Feathery Texture: Fine, lacy fronds create a rich, layered look
🪨 Great for Hardscape: Attaches easily to wood, stone, or mesh
💤 Low-Maintenance: Slow grower with minimal trimming needs
🧚 Fairy Forest Vibes: Creates magical hideouts for shrimp and fry
🌡️ Cool-Water Friendly: Thrives in slightly cooler, shaded aquariums
Why You'll Love It:
✨ Texture & Depth: Adds softness and dimension to any setup
📏 Compact Growth: Doesn't overrun your tank like faster mosses
💧 Algae-Resistant: Less prone to algae than some other mosses
🌱 Perfect for Aquascaping Projects: From moss walls to micro-forests
Care Instructions:
💡 Lighting: Low to moderate—too much light may cause browning
🌊 Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5; temperature 68–78°F (20–25°C)
🪴 Placement Tip: Use thread or glue to attach to hardscape surfaces
✂️ Maintenance: Trim sparingly to encourage thicker mats
Applications:
✔️ Aquascaping moss walls or accents
✔️ Nano tanks and shrimp habitats
✔️ Low-light or cool-water setups
✔️ Natural-looking driftwood and rock embellishment