Creating and caring for moss balls

[florap]

Hi all,
I've been curious about moss balls - what are their benefits beyond aesthetics?
Do they grow and if so, how quickly? I'm guessing not very fast.

I love their look, but they're pricey, so I'm wondering if I'd be buying them for myself or for my fish tanks.

I'm looking to expand my plant options, but I need something low maintenance.

Thanks in advance.

[detroit]

Honestly, I think moss balls are pretty limited in their benefits, mainly just providing a snack for the shrimps. I just don't see them growing at all.

[FinFan]

Honestly, I'm not really sold on moss balls. They're alright, I guess. Their main appeal is the aesthetics, but beyond that, I don't think they offer much. If you're still interested in trying them out, I'd recommend checking Amazon - that's where I got mine, and they were pretty reasonably priced.

[florap]

Honestly, I'm not really sold on moss balls. They're alright, I guess. Their main appeal is the aesthetics, but beyond that, I don't think they offer much. If you're still interested in trying them out, I'd recommend checking Amazon - that's where I got mine, and they were pretty reasonably priced.

I'm weird about ordering online, only did it for school books.
If they're good for shrimp and the price is right, I might consider one, I do think they look nice. Thanks

[SeaBidder]

I'm guessing you're referring to Marimo Moss balls. These are indeed very slow growers - a golf ball-sized one could easily be 5 years old. What's interesting is that they're actually a type of algae. While they may not be the most visually stunning addition to your tank, they're extremely useful in reducing nitrates, as they feed on them to grow. I'd highly recommend giving them a try.

[oldraider]

Moss balls are indeed a type of algae that absorb nitrates and waste, like ammonia, just like other plants do. I've had them for a couple of years now, and I've got one that's grown to the size of a baseball, so they do grow, albeit slowly.

[BadgersSong]

Slow growth rate does make me wonder if they're effective at absorbing nitrates. I've always been under the impression that fast-growing plants are the ones that really make a dent in nutrient uptake. Do moss balls somehow defy this logic?

[CasCat]

Honestly, I've thought about getting one, but when I saw the price tag of $10.95 for a quarter-sized ball, I'm just not sold on it.