🌿 Java Fern Care Guide (Microsorum pteropus)

🧾 Overview

The Java Fern is one of the most popular freshwater aquarium plants thanks to its hardiness, low maintenance needs, and unique appearance. Native to Southeast Asia, it’s found attached to rocks and driftwood in slow-moving rivers. Its broad green leaves and rhizome-based growth make it ideal for aquascaping in both beginner and advanced tanks.

🏠 Tank Placement & Setup

• Placement: Best in midground or background, attached to décor
• Mounting: Tie or glue rhizomes to driftwood, lava rock, or ornaments
• Substrate: Not required (burying the rhizome may cause rot)
• Lighting: Low to medium; too much light can cause leaf melt or algae growth

🌡️ Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderate
• Tank Size: Works in everything from nano tanks to large displays

🥗 Nutrients & Fertilization

• CO₂: Not required, but extra CO₂ will boost growth
• Fertilization: Benefits from liquid fertilizers, especially potassium and micronutrients
• Root Tabs: Not necessary since Java Fern absorbs nutrients primarily through its leaves

🌱 Propagation

Java Fern is one of the easiest plants to propagate:

1. Look for plantlets forming on older leaves.
2. Once the plantlets grow several leaves and roots, gently separate them.
3. Attach them to décor until they establish themselves.

🐟 Tank Mates & Uses

Safe with fish, shrimp, and snails

Great for shrimp tanks since leaves provide grazing surfaces

Withstands mild nibbling from fish that normally damage softer plants

Perfect for low-tech aquascapes or aquariums with larger, plant-disturbing fish

✅ Quick Care Summary

• Attribute	Details
  Lighting	Low–Medium
  CO₂	Not required
  Placement	Midground/Background (attached)
  Growth Rate	Slow–Moderate
  Difficulty	Easy (great for beginners)

  
  

  FAQ

  Q: Can Java Fern be planted in substrate?
  A: No, the rhizome should be attached to wood or rocks to prevent rotting.

  Q: Does Java Fern need CO₂?
  A: No, it thrives without CO₂, making it a perfect low-tech plant.

  Q: Is Java Fern good for beginners?
  A: Yes! It’s one of the easiest and hardiest aquarium plants available.