🌿 Java Fern Care Guide (Microsorum pteropus)
🌟 Overview The Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) is one of the most popular and hardy aquarium plants. Native to Southeast Asia, this low-maintenance plant is ideal for both beginners and experienced aquarists. With its lush green leaves and unique growth style, Java Fern thrives in a wide range of conditions and can be attached to driftwood, rocks, or other décor, making it a versatile addition to freshwater aquascapes.
🔑 Quick Facts
- Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus
- Common Name: Java Fern
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Care Level: Easy
- Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
- Placement: Midground or Background
- Propagation: Rhizome division / adventitious plantlets
🏠 Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: 5 gallons and up
- Water Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
- pH Range: 6.0–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water
- Lighting: Low to medium (too much light may cause black spots)
🌱 Planting & Growth Tips
- Do not bury the rhizome; attach Java Fern to driftwood, rocks, or ornaments with thread or glue until it anchors naturally.
- Thrives in low-tech tanks, no CO₂ injection required.
- Nutrient-rich water column helps, but root tabs are not necessary.
- Grows slowly but steadily; can reach 12–14 inches tall depending on variety.
🍽️ Propagation
- Java Fern reproduces through rhizome division (cutting the rhizome into sections, each with leaves and roots).
- Adventitious plantlets often grow on older leaves; these can be removed and replanted once roots develop.
🧑🤝🧑 Tank Mates
- Safe with all community fish, shrimp, and snails.
- Ideal for tanks with herbivores, as its thick leaves are usually avoided by most plant-nipping fish.
❓ FAQ
Q: Can I bury the Java Fern in substrate?
A: No, burying the rhizome causes it to rot. Attach it to rocks, driftwood, or hardscape.
Q: Does Java Fern need CO₂?
A: No, it does well in low-tech aquariums without added CO₂.
Q: How fast does Java Fern grow?
A: It is a slow grower but steady once established.
Q: Why does my Java Fern have black spots?
A: Black spots can be normal (where new plantlets form) but may also indicate too much light or nutrient deficiency.
