Mystery Moss

[BigBen]

Hi Everyone.

On my divided tank, I run Hamburg Matten filters, and one of them grows this really cool moss above water level.

I'm a little interested as to what it is, and where it came from. I've never had moss of any description in this tank. It also does when submerged quite sharpish. Google lens was no use and gave me 13 different answers

Google Lens's answers as a start point.

[fr499y]

Most likely Philonotis Fontana

[Martinspuddle]

Philonotis Fontana.

Found growing in many parts of the northern hemisphere and also used by many aquascapers too.

[BigBen]

Looks like the stuff, thank you.

Does it just appear on its own naturally, or would it have been introduced somehow?

[Martinspuddle]

Philonotis Fontana, I've seen it called by a common name of 'Fountain Apple-moss' is found all over the British Isles.

It apparently has tiny spores, so spreads quite easily. Either you've been for a walk somewhere it grows and brought the spores back with you or maybe if you have a Dog or Cat.

The only other thought is it's come in with some plants from a Garden Centre. Have you purchased anything from such a place recently?

[BigBen]

Philonotis Fontana, I've seen it called by a common name of 'Fountain Apple-moss' is found all over the British Isles.

It apparently has tiny spores, so spreads quite easily. Either you've been for a walk somewhere it grows and brought the spores back with you or maybe if you have a Dog or Cat.

The only other thought is it's come in with some plants from a Garden Centre. Have you purchased anything from such a place recently?

Probably the dog and she "helps" with the water changes. She loves exploring in the bushes too. I don't remember when I last bought plants to be honest.