Vesicularia dubyana 'Java Moss' (10x10cm Mat)

Vesicularia dubyana, commonly known as Java Moss, is one of the most popular and beginner-friendly mosses in the aquarium hobby. It’s ideal for both aquariums and ripariums, thanks to its hardiness, low care needs, and versatility.

Java Moss (Vesicularia dubyana) – Care Guide

Quick Facts

• Common name: Java Moss

• Scientific name: Vesicularia dubyana

• Type: Aquatic moss (true aquatic)

• Growth habit: Creeping, mat-forming

• Placement: Foreground, midground, hardscape, or floating

• Origin: Southeast Asia

• Growth rate: Slow to moderate

• Tank position: Submerged or at waterline (emersed growth possible)

In Aquariums

✅ Why It’s Great:

• Can grow fully submerged

• Attaches to rocks, wood, or mesh

• Provides shelter for fry and shrimp

• Improves water quality by absorbing excess nutrients

• Thrives in low-tech, low-light tanks

Water Conditions

Lighting

• Low to medium light is sufficient

• Will grow faster and denser with medium+ light

• Avoid intense direct light, which can trigger algae

Planting/Attachment

• Attach with:

  • Cotton thread or fishing line

  • Superglue gel (cyanoacrylate)

  • Moss mesh or pads

• Grows well on:

  • Driftwood

  • Lava rock

  • Coconut husk

  • Substrate (but tends to lift over time)

✂️ Maintenance

• Trim with aquascaping scissors to shape or prevent overgrowth

• Remove trapped detritus regularly (shrimp help!)

• Prevent clogging filters or shading other plants

In Ripariums

✅ Use at the Waterline

• Java Moss can grow emersed with high humidity

• Great for covering moist surfaces like:

  • Wood near waterline

  • Vertical rock faces

  • Background mesh panels

️ Riparium Tips

• Keep the moss constantly moist

• Mist frequently or maintain high humidity (70–90%)

• Use in splash zones or waterfall edges

• Slower growth emersed, but survives well

Fertilization

• Aquarium: Absorbs nutrients from water column

  • Use a balanced liquid fertilizer for best growth

• Riparium: Foliar misting with diluted ferts (optional)

⚠️ Common Issues

Compatibility

• Safe for all fish, shrimp, and snails

• Excellent for:

  • Breeding tanks

  • Shrimp tanks

  • Betta tanks

  • Natural aquascapes

✅ Summary