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Taiwan Moss | Taxiphyllum alternans

Taiwan Moss | Taxiphyllum alternans

Regular price $34.95 AUD
Regular price $30.00 AUD Sale price $34.95 AUD
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Taiwan Moss (Taxiphyllum alternans) – Live Aquarium Moss Australia

Taiwan Moss (Taxiphyllum alternans) is a beautiful freshwater aquarium moss known for its lush green colour, delicate branching structure and attractive layered growth. Its naturally spreading appearance makes it a popular choice for shrimp tanks, planted aquariums, moss walls and aquascaping.

Taiwan Moss is relatively easy to grow, adapts to a variety of freshwater conditions and does not require CO₂ injection. Its branching foliage can create a natural, forest-like appearance when attached to driftwood or rocks.

Why Taiwan Moss Is Excellent for Shrimp Tanks

At AUShrimpHome, we particularly value aquarium mosses for their ability to provide natural shelter and grazing surfaces for freshwater shrimp.

Taiwan Moss develops a network of fine branches where biofilm and beneficial microorganisms can grow. These microorganisms provide a natural food source for Cherry Shrimp, Caridina Shrimp and newly hatched shrimplets.

Its dense foliage also creates valuable hiding places for:

  • Baby shrimp (shrimplets): Providing shelter and access to natural biofilm.

  • Freshly moulted shrimp: Offering protection while their new exoskeleton hardens.

  • Berried females: Creating sheltered areas where they can retreat when disturbed.

From our experience maintaining hundreds of shrimp breeding tanks, providing sufficient hiding places and mature grazing surfaces is an important part of supporting healthy shrimp colonies.

Unlike fast-growing stem plants, Taiwan Moss can provide useful cover without quickly filling the entire aquarium, allowing shrimp keepers to enjoy watching their colonies.

Taiwan Moss Care & Growing Requirements

Taiwan Moss grows well in low to moderate lighting, making it suitable for both low-tech and planted aquarium setups.

Moderate lighting and balanced nutrients can encourage denser growth, while optional CO₂ supplementation may improve its growth rate.

Taiwan Moss can be attached to:

  • Driftwood and branches

  • Aquarium rocks

  • Stainless steel mesh

  • Moss walls

  • Aquarium decorations

Use aquarium-safe thread or a small amount of aquarium-safe glue to secure the moss until it establishes itself.

Occasional trimming helps maintain its attractive branching structure and prevents excessive debris from accumulating within the moss.

Taiwan Moss Care Parameters

Parameter Recommended
Common Name Taiwan Moss
Scientific Name Taxiphyllum alternans (commonly used trade identification)
Plant Type Freshwater Aquarium Moss
Origin Asia
Temperature 18–28°C
Lighting Low to Moderate
CO₂ Requirement Optional
Growth Rate Slow to Moderate
Difficulty Easy to Moderate
Placement Driftwood, Rocks, Mesh, Moss Walls
Suitable For Shrimp Tanks, Planted Aquariums, Aquascaping

Taiwan Moss vs Mini Taiwan Moss

Although Taiwan Moss and Mini Taiwan Moss are closely associated in the aquarium trade, they may be sold under different names based on their appearance and growth habits.

Taiwan Moss is generally marketed for its spreading, layered growth, making it attractive for moss walls, driftwood and larger aquascaping features.

Mini Taiwan Moss is typically marketed as a more compact form, making it appealing for smaller aquariums and detailed aquascapes.

Both are excellent choices for shrimp tanks, providing natural grazing surfaces and hiding places.

Note: These trade names do not necessarily represent scientifically distinct species. Growth characteristics may vary depending on the cultivated stock and aquarium conditions.

Why Choose Taiwan Moss from AUShrimpHome?

At AUShrimpHome, our aquarium recommendations are based on hands-on experience maintaining hundreds of freshwater shrimp breeding tanks.

We understand the importance of providing shrimp with a natural environment that supports biofilm development, shelter and healthy colony growth.

Whether you're creating a lush planted aquarium, decorating driftwood or establishing a dedicated shrimp breeding tank, Taiwan Moss is a versatile, low-maintenance aquarium plant.

Add natural greenery, valuable hiding places and additional grazing surfaces to your aquarium with Taiwan Moss from AUShrimpHome.

Plant appearance, growth rate and colour may vary depending on lighting, nutrients and aquarium conditions.

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How to Take Care The Shrimps

Taking care of Freshwater aquarium Shrimps (Neocaridina and Caridina) involves providing them with a suitable environment and proper attention to their specific needs. Here are some essential care guidelines:

1. Tank Setup:

  • Shrimp are relatively small and can be kept in tanks as small as 5 gallons (19 liters), but a larger tank allows for more stable water conditions.
  • Provide hiding spots with plants, driftwood, and rocks. Live plants like Java Moss and Java Fern are ideal as they serve as both hiding places and a food source.

2. Water Parameters:

For Neocaridinar (Cherry Shrimps)

  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-28°C)
  • pH: 6.5-7.5
  • GH (General Hardness): 6-10
  • KH (Carbonate Hardness): 3-10

For Caridina (Taiwan bee, Crystal Shrimps)

  • Temperature: 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • pH: 6.0-6.5
  • GH (General Hardness): 3-5
  • KH (Carbonate Hardness): 0-10

3. Filtration:

  • Use a sponge filter such as Qanvee filter or a gentle flow filter to avoid strong currents that can stress shrimp.

4. Feeding:

  • Shrimp are omnivores and feed on algae, biofilm, and commercial shrimp pellets.
  • Supplement their diet with blanched vegetables like Mulberry leaves, spinach or zucchini.
  • Offer a varied diet to ensure proper nutrition.

5. Water Changes:

  • Perform regular water changes (10-20% weekly) to maintain water quality.
  • Use dechlorinated water at the same temperature and parameters as the tank.

6. Molting:

  • Provide a calcium source, such as our shrimp mineral products or crushed coral, cuttlebone, to support molting.

7. Tank Mates:

  • Shrimp are generally peaceful but can be preyed upon by larger fish.
  • Suitable tank mates include small, non-aggressive fish like guppies or endlers.
  • Avoid aggressive or predatory species.

8. Breeding:

  • Shrimp breed readily in captivity.
  • Provide moss or other dense plant growth for shrimp to hide their eggs.
  • Maintain stable water conditions to encourage breeding.

9. Health and Observation:

  • Regularly observe your Shrimp for signs of stress, illness, or abnormal behavior.
  • Quarantine new arrivals to prevent introducing diseases.

10. Patience:

  • Shrimp keeping can be rewarding but requires patience. Allow your aquarium to mature and stabilize before adding shrimp.

By following these care guidelines, you can create a thriving environment for your Shrimp and enjoy their vibrant colors and fascinating behavior in your aquarium.

How to Acclimate New Shrimps & Fish

Acclimating new aquarium shrimp/fish is crucial to ensure a smooth transition and minimize stress. Follow these steps for proper acclimation:

Materials Needed:

  • A container or bucket.
  • An airline tube or a slow-drip system (optional).
  • A net.

Procedure:

  1. Turn Off Lights: Dim the aquarium lights or turn them off completely to reduce stress on the shrimp/fish.
  2. Float the Bag: Place the sealed bag containing the shrimp on the surface of the aquarium water. This allows the water inside the bag to gradually adjust to the tank temperature.
  3. Drip Acclimation (Optional): If you have an airline tube or a slow-drip system, set it up to provide a gentle flow of water from the tank into the bag. This method is slower but provides a more gradual transition. Adjust the flow rate to about 2-4 drops per second.
  4. Monitor Temperature: Ensure the water temperature inside the bag matches the tank temperature after about 15-20 minutes. This step is essential to prevent temperature shock.
  5. Open Bag and Add Tank Water: Carefully open the bag without allowing shrimp to escape. Using a net or your hand, gently transfer the shrimp into a clean container or bucket. Be cautious not to introduce water from the bag into the container.
  6. Gradual Water Exchange: Over the course of about 30 minutes to an hour, gradually add small amounts of aquarium water to the container with the shrimp/fish. This helps the shrimp adjust to the tank's water parameters.
  7. Net Transfer: After acclimation, use a net to transfer the shrimp from the container into the main aquarium. Avoid adding any water from the acclimation container into the tank.
  8. Dispose of Bag Water: Safely dispose of the water from the bag. Do not release it into your aquarium, as it may contain contaminants or pathogens.
  9. Observe and Monitor: Keep an eye on the newly introduced shrimp/fish for the next few hours to ensure they adapt well to their new environment. Monitor their behavior and look for any signs of stress or illness.

Proper acclimation helps reduce the risk of shock and ensures a smoother transition for your new aquarium creatures. It's an essential step in ensuring their health and well-being in your tank.

Shipping & DOA Policy

  • Concerned about purchasing livestock online? Rest assured, we ship shrimps and other livestock to every corner of NSW, VIC, QLD, and SA weekly, ensuring their safe and healthy arrival. Our Dead on Arrival (DOA) policy is applied to all orders, guaranteeing your peace of mind.
  • Shrimps are carefully packed in a styrofoam box and shipped every Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday early morning to avoid weekend delays. Delivery times generally range from 1 to 3 business days depending on your location.
  • To initiate DOA claims, we kindly ask buyers to contact our dedicated support team either via email at aushrimphome@gmail.com or directly through our website's chat feature. In order to expedite a swift resolution, which may involve resending a new package, issuing a refund, or providing credit for a future order, we kindly request that buyers submit a clear photo of the deceased shrimp(s) inside the unopened bag within a maximum of 1 HOUR from the moment of Australia Post delivery. Your timely communication is pivotal in enabling us to promptly address any concerns and uphold our unwavering commitment to ensuring your satisfaction.

Important Notes Before Buying

  • Please note that our ornamental shrimps are small, with a maximum size of around 2cm. When purchasing, you'll typically receive juveniles or sub-adults measuring approximately 0.8-1.5cm, which may display less vibrant coloration than adults. However, rest assured that they originate from the same colony and offer excellent value for your investment.
  • To ensure the well-being of your shrimp/fish upon arrival, please follow the tracking number and acclimate them by slowly adding tank water to their bag/container for about one hour. This gradual transition helps them adapt to new water parameters and temperatures.
  • The images featured on our website showcase the exceptional individuals and actual shrimps/fish thriving at our facility. However, please keep in mind that as living organisms, we cannot guarantee that the shrimp/fish you purchase will be identical in color and size. Keep in mind that shipping stress may temporarily affect the shrimp's coloration, especially neocaridina species, which can become pale and translucent. However, their colors will return to their vibrant state within a few days under suitable water conditions.
  • Our pricing is based on current stock levels and market rates in Australia. We regularly adjust our prices to provide our customers with the most competitive rates available.
  • If you encounter any issues with the color or quality of the shrimp/fish, please don't hesitate to reach out. We are committed to assisting and resolving any concerns. Thank you for your trust and support!