java moss alternative?

**pckroeger** · 02-24-2013, 02:49 PM

I am very new to fishkeeping, and i want to keep cherry red shrimp, and i have read that they (and more importantly, their babies) enjoy java moss to hide in. The only problem with this is that keeping any live plant at this point makes me nervous as i am so new to this hobby. is there any artificial plant alternative to java moss that i can use for the shrimp to hide in?
I have a 100L tank i am cycling.

**talldutchie** · 02-24-2013, 06:07 PM

If you don't care about looks... artificial grass table decorations would be interesting. What will also be appreciated is a heap of those ceramic noodles, the round tunnel shaped ones.

**Lady Hobbs** · 02-24-2013, 06:42 PM

Nothing very special to do with java moss other than putting it in the tank.

**talldutchie** · 02-24-2013, 06:46 PM

Well, it needs some light.

**Lady Hobbs** · 02-24-2013, 06:52 PM

A bit.

**dmagerl** · 02-24-2013, 08:48 PM

DIY spawning mop?

**genocidex** · 02-24-2013, 09:43 PM

Hiding isnt the only reason rcs like mosses or other plants like it. They hold loads of food for the shrimp and babys... I would give it a shot... Tbh ive kept it in a bucket with nill light and it hasnt even died.... 4 months going strong

**pckroeger** · 02-25-2013, 03:45 AM

ooh why do they like the noodles/what do they use them for??

**pckroeger** · 02-25-2013, 03:46 AM

excuse the ignorance, but what is a spawning mop??

**talldutchie** · 02-25-2013, 04:23 AM

Originally Posted by pckroeger

ooh why do they like the noodles/what do they use them for??

Hiding. They also catch things and grow interesting bacteria.

A spawning mop is also a good idea, see http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/killi/spawningmop.php