Marimo Moss Balls

Marimo moss balls are a type of algae, Aegagropila linnaei, that naturally forms into a round, velvety green shape. Despite their name, they aren’t actually moss but a rare form of spherical algae found in freshwater lakes, particularly in Japan, Iceland, and parts of Europe.

Special Note

As this species can contain dangerous invasive species to our region of the world, information on their care will not be discussed on this website. More and more countries worldwide are expressing concern about these plants. Please use caution, obey your local laws and do your part in stopping invasive species from invading your local habitat.

Sources

• Canada Department of Fisheries and Oceans: (link)
• United States Fish & Wildlife Service: (link)

In Canada, invasive Zebra Mussels have recently been found in moss ball products, a type of aquarium plant product made of green algae. At this time, there have been confirmed reports of infected moss balls in Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Quebec.

Zebra Mussels pose a serious threat to Canada’s aquatic ecosystems, but you can help stop the spread.