Russian Algae Moss

[SeanMurphy]

The LFS is selling "Russian Algae Moss" in little potted balls. I was wondering how this stuff grows. Does it stay in a head formation, or would it spread out for ground cover?

 

[joannde]

it stays in a ball - you have to rotate it from time to time to keep it in shape. some folks have cut it open and placed it on their substrate but its only a "temporary" ground cover from what I understand.
I have about 10 of these in various tanks - I like them - they definitely add something "different"

 

[Zezmo]

It sounds like your LFS makes up thier own names for things. Maybe a picture?

 

[SeanMurphy]

Do a google search on russian algae moss, you'll find loads. Also known as japanese moss balls, etc..

 

[dapellegrini]

Man, how many names do these things go by? I think this is what you are talking about:

http://www.plantgeek.net/plant-199.htm

Right?

 

[Zezmo]

I wanted to verify you were actually talking about Cladophora aegagropila. When I grew these, I mangaged to turn my one ball into 5, in about a 8 month period. Over time you might be able to fill the bottom of a tanks with these guys.
If they are hit with an Ammonia spike, they will produce spores with will cause a bunch of these to form all over your driftwood and such.
I have not tried "spreading them out" as a forground. I suspect you could use a steel mesh technique such as is used to create a "Riccia Carpet".

 

[SeanMurphy]

That's the guys. I'll probably grab one or two from the LFS next time I'm out, they're going at about $4CND a pop.

I still need to find a cheaper source of driftwood, too.

Thinking out loud.