Illegal moss balls brought into NZ by artist 'have potential to ruin' lakes and rivers - judge123RF.COM Marimo moss balls are algae with a velvety appearance that are found mostly in lakes in the northern hemisphere. GEORGE HEARD/STUFF Botanic artist Raquel Miranda bought moss balls online that a judge says "have the potential" to ruin NZ lakes and rivers and had them delivered to her in Christchurch. She was found guilty of three charges related to the illegal moss balls' importation in the city's district court on Monday. Landcare Research algae expert Dr Phillip Novis said he had examined the moss balls sent to him and identified them. There was a concern that native "meadows" on lake bottoms could be screened out by the moss balls.

Source: Stuff March 26, 2018 03:22 UTC