Pest identification
What's eating my taxiphyllum sp. 'flame'?
Thread algae and hair algae
Signs: Green threads weave through the upright fronds, matting them together and obscuring the flame shape
Control: Dose liquid carbon or increase CO2, reduce light hours, introduce Amano shrimp for targeted grazing
Cyanobacteria (blue-green algae)
Signs: Blue-green slime coating forms in low-flow zones between tightly packed fronds
Control: Improve water movement at attachment point, perform a 3-day blackout, siphon slime away manually
Herbivorous fish (goldfish, cichlids)
Signs: Upright fronds torn away from attachment, destroying the distinctive vertical growth form
Control: Keep only with plant-safe species; attach firmly to hardscape with cyanoacrylate gel or cotton thread
Keep taxiphyllum sp. 'flame' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Taxiphyllum sp. 'Flame' pests — FAQ
What is eating my taxiphyllum sp. 'flame'?
Taxiphyllum sp. 'Flame' (Flame Moss) grows in upright spiralling fronds that trap detritus and algae. Thread algae and cyanobacteria are the primary threats, weaving into the tight growth. Its unusual vertical shape is easily disrupted by herbivorous fish. Amano shrimp and good water circulation are the most effective management tools.
How do I get rid of thread algae and hair algae on taxiphyllum sp. 'flame'?
Green threads weave through the upright fronds, matting them together and obscuring the flame shape Dose liquid carbon or increase CO2, reduce light hours, introduce Amano shrimp for targeted grazing
How do I get rid of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) on taxiphyllum sp. 'flame'?
Blue-green slime coating forms in low-flow zones between tightly packed fronds Improve water movement at attachment point, perform a 3-day blackout, siphon slime away manually
How do I get rid of herbivorous fish (goldfish, cichlids) on taxiphyllum sp. 'flame'?
Upright fronds torn away from attachment, destroying the distinctive vertical growth form Keep only with plant-safe species; attach firmly to hardscape with cyanoacrylate gel or cotton thread