The sale of Marimo Balls are restricted and require a declaration they are Zebra Mussel free in Canada.
Marimo moss balls (Aegagropila linnaei), also known as lake balls, are a rare, spherical growth form of filamentous green algae that naturally form in a few cold freshwater lakes in the Northern Hemisphere. Despite their common name, they are not moss and do not have a central kernel; they are solid algae.
Characteristics
In their natural habitat (such as Lake Akan in Japan and Lake Mývatn in Iceland), gentle water currents roll the algae along the lakebed, which causes it to form a compact, velvety green ball. This rolling motion ensures all sides receive light for photosynthesis and prevents debris from accumulating.
In Japanese culture, marimo are considered a national treasure and are cherished as symbols of eternal love, luck, and happiness. An Ainu legend tells a story of two lovers whose forbidden love transformed their hearts into these enduring algae balls.
Availability of Marimo Moss Balls
Due to concerns over contamination with invasive zebra mussels, the sale of marimo moss balls has been restricted in some regions of North America. When purchasing, ensure you are buying from a reputable source that provides healthy, responsibly sourced specimens.
In Canada, sellers require a declaration certificate that the Moss Balls are free of Zebra Mussels and other invasive species.
If you encounter a contaminated moss ball, you must dispose of them properly as well as any water that has come into contact with them. Follow the steps outlined the document below by Fisheries & Oceans Canada.
- Information on the disposal of moss balls (Government of Canada)
SUBMERGED PLANT
DEMOGRAPHICS
- Scientific Name: Aegagropila linnaei
- Common Name: Marimo Moss Balls
- Origins: Japan, Iceland, Northern Europe
- Common Size: 1.5in – 2.5in
- Lifespan: Up To 20 years
- Lighting: Low to Medium Light
- Fertilizer: None required
- Care Level: Easy
WATER PARAMETERS
- Temperature: Below 76F
- pH: 6.0 – 8.0
- Hardness: 5 – 15 dGH
AQUARIUM SETUP
- Water Type: must have continuous flow to maintain shape
- Substrate: any substrate
- Min Tank Size: no minimum size
