AquairiLearn

Queen Moss care guide

Queen Moss (Hydropogonella gymnostoma) — medium light, 20-26 °C, pH 5.5-7, CO2 recommended.

Overview

Queen Moss (Hydropogonella gymnostoma) is an aquatic plant of the family Amblystegiaceae, listed in the Aquairi knowledge base as an advanced-level species. It is typically grown under medium light with pressurised CO2 injection on any substrate. A rare and highly sought-after collector's moss with dense, compact growth forming thick cushions. One of the most beautiful mosses available in the hobby, prized for its lush, uniform appearance.

Taxonomy

  • Family: Amblystegiaceae
  • Genus: Hydropogonella
  • Scientific name: Hydropogonella gymnostoma
  • Common synonyms: Hydropogonella gymnostoma

Habitat

Hydropogonella gymnostoma is a small moss of the family Amblystegiaceae described from Central America; it grows on damp rock and wood in shaded, slow-flowing streams. In the Aquairi knowledge base, populations associated with this form are recorded from South America.

Growth requirements

  • Lighting: medium
  • CO2: recommended
  • Temperature: 20-26 °C (68-79 °F)
  • pH: 5.5-7
  • GH: 2-8 °dGH
  • Substrate: any
  • Maximum height: 5 cm
  • Growth rate: slow
  • Recommended placement: epiphyte on wood or rock

Placement

Tied or glued to hardscape close to the substrate level. Cool, well-oxygenated, clean water and moderate flow maintain its compact growth form. In the Aquairi knowledge base this form is recommended for the midground as an epiphyte on hardscape under medium light with pressurised CO2 injection, using any substrate.

Propagation

Fragments of healthy stems re-attach to wood or rock under stable conditions; growth is slow and requires patience. Documented propagation techniques for this entry include: division of the parent plant.

Common issues

Algal fouling and detritus accumulation are the main risks; gentle current and clean water are the simplest preventive measures.

More Species Profiles

View all Species Profiles