Microsorum pteropus "Red"

Datasheet

General DescriptionMicrosorum pteropus 'Red,' a Java fern variety originating in the south of Thailand, was introduced to the aquatic plant market by Tropica, a Danish aquatic plant nursery. This particular variety stands out with very tall growth and broad leaves. Young leaves display a distinct brownish-red hue, transitioning to green as they mature, resembling the standard Java Fern.

Aquarium SuitabilityBeing a member of the Ferns (Monilophytes) family, M. pteropus 'Red' is categorized as very easy in terms of difficulty, making it suitable for aquarium cultivation. Especially fitting for large aquariums due to its vertical growth pattern and characteristics.

Demands and HardinessMicrosorum pteropus 'Red' exhibits slow growth and is suited for epiphytic growth on hardscape, making it suitable for background or midground placement in aquariums. The plant thrives under varying light conditions ranging from low to high, with specific requirements for parameters like carbon dioxide, iron, nitrate, and temperature within the ranges of 20-28°C.

Aquascaping & UsageIn an aquarium setup, this red Java fern variety can be utilized for enhancing aquascapes as an epiphyte plant or adding depth to the background or midground sections, contributing to a visually appealing aquatic environment.

PropagationPropagation of M. pteropus 'Red' is achieved through various methods such as proliferating leaves, roots, rhizome division, and cutting off daughter plants, enabling aquarists to expand their plant population easily and effectively.

Habitat and DistributionNative to the southern regions of Thailand, Microsorum pteropus 'Red' thrives in tropical habitats as an epiphytic or epilithic plant, commonly found in aquatic environments rich in biodiversity, where it serves ecological roles as a decorative fern species.