Help with smelly java moss

[dcewing]

Took the kids on a "field trip" today. I checked out a new (to us) fish store, Aquarium Paradise (Lakewood WA). Seemed nice, heavy on the saltwater fish. They'd just got in, but not setup yet, a 1200 :grinyes: gallon tank they were going to use as a display in the saltwater area. I was impressed! The rest of the store had a feeling like they were just moving in, although I believe they're not new. Lots of room for expansion. I also liked their betta setup better than average. All the bettas were in tiny tanks with some sort of trickling water constantly running into them. I assume it went back to their filtration system. Different setup, at least for me.

Anyway, my real point here. I bought some java moss there as my local Petsmart and Petco didn't have any. When I got it home, I discovered that it REEKS! Is this normal? It is about a baseball size wad, compacted and held together with a rubberband. I have spread it out and have it in a bowl of water with an airstone bubbling under it. I've changed the water a couple times. I thought perhaps the compacting of the moss prevented circulation through the plant and bits were rotting or something. Smells a little better, but still not great.

So, anyone have a similar experience? What can I do to help the smell? Would it be safe for my tank?

Additionally, should I quarantine it somehow before adding to my tank? Can it be disinfected? I've read about using various things as a dip/soak but wondered if the moss would hold up to such abuse.

Thanks!
Carol

 

[mellowvision]

I have found that even a small amount of Hydrogen Peroxide will bleach and kill my java moss... I'd think bleach would too.. not sure what to tell you.

 

[gmh]

Sounds like it has suffered from lack of O2. You had the right idea letting it spread out and adding an airstone.
This stuff is hard to kill but once degraded it takes time to come back as well. If you put it in the tank the lighting and water circulation should be enough to eventually bring it back into good health.

 

[Star_Rider]

ahh aquarium paradise

yes they are heavier on the marine side..tho the also stock quite a few cichlids.

they have a pretty nice assortment when compared to other LFS in the area.

the store layout is nice as it allows you room to roam.

the 1200 must be a new tank for them ..I bet it's going in to the area at the rear of the store..near the LIve rock they store..i know they knocked out a wall and moved some tanks awhile ago.

I talked to them about live plants and now they have a 55 set aside with good light and some plants you don't find often,(madagascare lace)

I think the others may have pointed out the issue with the moss.if it was banded my guess is you are smelling some die off.
next time ping me if you want java moss..I'll give it to ya.
(I live in spanaway)

 

[dcewing]

Better now

Well, after a few hours of water changes and aeration, the smell has greatly diminished. Will try putting some into my tank tomorrow. I think I have way more than I need.

Star_rider, thanks for the reply. Any other good fish stores in the area? I'm in Olympia, but will travel if it's worth my while. And,yes, the new tank was in the back by the live rock. Will have to go back to see it when it's up and running.

Thanks everyone,

Carol