No moss and only exceptionally a sphere
The moss ball is actually not a moss plant, but algae. Only the external resemblance to moss earned it this name. Even the round shape is not a growth form dictated by nature. Much more, countless algae have combined to form this form.
also read
- Tie up a moss ball - how is that possible?
- Propagating bladder bushes - two ways to get new specimens
- Guzmania Kindel - the birth of a new plant
These algae do not always form a ball. This phenomenon is not common in the wild either and only occurs in certain bodies of water.
Is it even possible to reproduce as a sphere?
Like all plants, algae naturally multiply. As a result, the moss ball also increases in size, which, however, happens very slowly at 2-5 mm per year. However, new balls are not an automatic result of the multiplication. Rather, an attempt must be made to bring an accumulation of algae into this form and then to let it grow further. There are reports that our own breeding has brought considerable results.
Let nature do it patiently
The thread-like green algae, which are part of the moss ball in the aquarium, multiply and occasionally detach from the moss ball. They become more and more numerous and form new structures. It remains to be seen and hoped whether there will also be mini-spheres among them. That should also be the method by which the breeders mostly proceed. So patience and luck are required.
Divide the moss ball
If you want to actively promote reproduction, you can also divide an existing ball and try to shape it into two new balls over time. However, this process is tedious.
- choose a larger moss ball
- tie a tight thread around it that divides the ball in half
- tighten the thread every few weeks
- the new growth also divides the sphere further
- eventually the ball is separated into two parts
Support shape and growth
The two halves of the moss ball are not evenly round and must be further shaped patiently. To do this, they have to be rolled or turned regularly on the substrate. Occasionally rinse them carefully with aquarium water to remove heavy dirt.
Tips
Not only a round moss ball is decorative. You can also cut them up and place individual parts on roots or stones untiethat experience such an appreciation.
