Fissidens fontanus

Fissidens fontanus — sometimes sold as 'Phoenix Moss' — is one of the most visually impressive aquatic mosses available, producing bright-green, feathery fronds with a distinctive comb-like arrangement of tiny paired leaves along each stem. The fronds attach firmly to smooth surfaces including glass, polished stones, and fine driftwood, creating a remarkably clean, precise appearance.

Native to North American streams, F. fontanus prefers cool, well-oxygenated water and benefits from supplemental CO2, though it will grow without it at reduced speed. It is more temperature-sensitive than most aquarium mosses, performing best at 18–24°C. In warm tropical tanks above 28°C, growth may stall.

F. fontanus is a go-to choice for high-end aquascapes where exceptional moss quality is desired. Its clean, structured form is effective as a foreground carpet on smooth stones, as foreground edging along hardscape, or as a detailed accent on fine driftwood branches in nature aquascapes.

Light: Low to medium; 20–50 µmol PAR — consistent moderate light produces the densest, most structured fronds. CO2: Beneficial; CO2 supplementation markedly improves frond density and adherence to smooth surfaces. Fertilisation: Weekly liquid micronutrients; ensure good iron and potassium levels for bright-green colour. Placement: Attach to smooth stones or fine wood branches in foreground; cool-water tanks (18–24°C) are ideal. Propagation: Cut fronds 1–2 cm long and press or glue to new surfaces; initial attachment takes 2–3 weeks.