No photo yet
Sign in to submit the first photo
Fairy Moss
Azolla filiculoides
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Polypodiopsida›Salviniales›Salviniaceae
📍 North America
Tiny floating fern that turns red in bright light. Creates a dense mat on the surface. Excellent nitrogen fixer. Can be invasive if not managed.
Tank Mates
Shrimp benefit from the dense mat for grazing and shelter; they won't damage the plant
Large shrimp that graze on algae and detritus without harming the moss structure
Small peaceful fish that appreciate the shade and shelter provided by the floating mat
Algae-eating fish that won't uproot or damage the delicate moss fronds
Excellent companion plant; both are low-maintenance and create a lush planted environment
Complementary foreground plant that creates layered aquascaping with floating moss above
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing fronds, stunted growth, pale coloration, loss of red pigmentation under bright light
Dose with comprehensive liquid fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and trace elements; perform regular water changes to replenish nutrients
Algae Overgrowth on Moss
Green or brown algae coating the moss fronds, reduced photosynthesis, plant appears dull
Increase water circulation, reduce lighting duration, manually remove algae-covered sections, introduce algae-eating fish or shrimp like Amano Shrimp
Excessive Growth/Invasiveness
Rapid mat expansion blocking light to lower plants, covering entire water surface, choking out other vegetation
Regularly harvest and remove excess moss sections; trim mats to 30-40% of surface coverage; compost removed material or share with other aquarists
Decay from Poor Water Conditions
Browning fronds, mushy texture, foul odor, plant disintegration
Improve water quality through increased aeration and water changes; reduce bioload; ensure adequate lighting; remove decaying sections immediately
Community Photos
0 photosPhotos are added when members log a tank with this species and upload a photo in their tank journal. Add your own tank to contribute.
No photos yet — add a tank with Fairy Moss to be the first!
Sign in to vote.
Tips from the community 💡
0 tipsReal experiences, care advice, and keeper notes. Finn learns from these too.
Sign in to share your experience.
No community tips yet — be the first to share your knowledge!
Quick Facts
- co2
- not required
- lighting
- medium
- placement
- floating
- difficulty
- easy
- growthRate
- very fast