More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | no |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 4°C / 39.20°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-12 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 10-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
The Microsorum pteropus "Needle Leaf," also known as "True Needle Leaf," is a Java fern variety within the Polypodiaceae family, characterized by its narrow, band-like leaves with a medium-dark green hue and undulating margins. The larger variety, often labeled as M. pteropus "Taiwan," features leaves over 5 mm wide and can grow up to 2 cm in width and 30 cm in length. On the other hand, the smaller variant traded as Microsorum spec. "Mini" bears narrower leaves, ranging from 3-5 mm in width. Both types have a relatively slow growth rate, with the younger plant's leaves staying around 10 cm long and mature populations developing leaves up to 30 cm long.
Aquarium Suitability
The Microsorum pteropus "Needle Leaf" is deemed very easy to care for in aquariums, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Its status as an epiphyte allows it to thrive when attached to hardscape elements, preferably in midground or foreground placements within nano tanks, adding a lush, vibrant touch to aquatic landscapes.
Demands and Hardiness
The "Needle Leaf" Java fern exhibits a slow growth pattern and requires a relatively low to high light intensity for photosynthesis. It can tolerate a wide range of temperatures between 20-28°C but is unsuitable for outdoor use in colder climates. Adequate levels of carbon dioxide (10-40 mg/l), iron (0.01-0.5 mg/l), nitrates (10-50 mg/l), phosphates (0.1-3 mg/l), and potassium (5-30 mg/l) are essential for its optimal growth, along with a pH range of 5-7.5 and a carbonate hardness of 0-12.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, the Microsorum pteropus "Needle Leaf" serves as an excellent choice for creating natural-looking underwater sceneries due to its slender foliage and epiphytic nature. This fern's ability to flourish in hardscape environments allows aquarists to incorporate it into intricate designs, particularly in midground and foreground arrangements, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of nano tanks and providing a lovely backdrop for other aquatic species.
Propagation
Propagation of the Microsorum pteropus "Needle Leaf" can be achieved through various methods, including the proliferation of leaves and roots, rhizome division, and splitting or cutting off daughter plants. These propagation techniques allow aquarists to expand their fern population and maintain a healthy, verdant aquarium environment.
Habitat and Distribution
Originating from Tropical Asia, the specific distribution and habitat details of the Microsorum pteropus "Needle Leaf" remain uncertain, with limited information available about its exact natural range within the region. Despite this ambiguity, the fern's adaptability to submerged environments and its popularity among aquarists have solidified its presence in aquatic plant cultivation and aquarium hobbyist communities.