Pellia Moss

Monosolenium tenerum

Plantae›Marchantiophyta›Marchantiopsida›Pelliaceae

📍 East Asia (China, India, Japan)

A flat, ribbon-like liverwort with a deep green, glossy surface that forms dense, spreading sheets on hardscape or the substrate. It is not a true moss but is widely sold and used as one. Particularly popular in shrimp and nano tanks — the flat, broad fronds create excellent grazing and hiding surfaces for dwarf shrimp. Grows slowly and does not need attachment, but its dense structure means it can smother smaller plants if left unchecked.

Tank Mates

Red Cherry Shrimp

Ideal companion; shrimp graze on biofilm and detritus among fronds without damaging the plant

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Larger shrimp that benefit from shelter; excellent algae control without harming Pellia

excellent

Otocinclus

Small, peaceful fish that graze on algae and biofilm; won't uproot or damage the plant

good

Anubias Nana

Excellent plant companion with similar low-light requirements and slow growth rate

excellent

Java Moss

Compatible plant that creates dense cover; both thrive in low-light, low-CO2 conditions

excellent

Dwarf Gourami

Peaceful but may uproot or disturb moss; only suitable in larger tanks with secure placement

caution

Common Diseases

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Green, brown, or black algae coating fronds; reduced light penetration through dense moss sheets

Treatment

Reduce light duration to 6-8 hours daily, increase water changes, add algae-eating shrimp (Red Cherry or Amano), and manually remove excess algae with a soft brush

Melting / Tissue Decay

Symptoms

Fronds becoming translucent, mushy, or disintegrating; brown discoloration spreading through the plant

Treatment

Improve water circulation, reduce tank temperature if above 77°F (25°C), perform 30-50% water changes, and remove severely affected portions to prevent spread

Nutrient Deficiency

Symptoms

Slow growth, pale or yellowish coloration, stunted new fronds

Treatment

Dose liquid all-in-one fertilizer weekly, ensure adequate lighting (low-medium), and maintain stable water parameters with regular water changes

Bacterial Infection

Symptoms

Slimy coating on fronds, foul odor, rapid tissue breakdown

Treatment

Increase water changes to 50% every 2-3 days, improve aeration and water circulation, remove affected portions, and avoid overfeeding tank inhabitants

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Quick Facts

co2: Not required
light: Low to medium
max size: Flat sheets 3–5 cm (1–2 in) thick
placement: Foreground / hardscape
substrate: None — drape on hardscape or substrate surface
growth rate: Slow

Water it likes

ph: 6.0–7.5
notes: Prefers cooler water — may deteriorate in tanks above 77 °F (25 °C). Does not attach; use gravity or loose placement.
hardness: 0–12 dGH
temperature: 138–171°F (59–77°C)