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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 | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 5-40mg/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
Microsorum pteropus, commonly known as Java fern, is a versatile plant that thrives in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia. It can be found growing on rocks or wood in rivulets and waterfalls, with some populations permanently submerged while others exist as terrestrial plants on moist forest ground. This widely spread plant is popular in the aquarium hobby and is readily available in most aquatic stores. Its variability in size and leaf form can often lead to confusion, with various forms that differ significantly, sometimes even resembling different species.
Aquarium Suitability
Aquarium Compatibility: Yes
Availability: Frequently available commercially and from other aquarists
Difficulty: Very easy
Winter Hardiness: Unsuitable for outdoor use in colder climates
Plant Growth: Slow
Demands and Hardiness
Java fern is an ideal plant for beginners in the planted aquarium hobby due to its low demands and ease of cultivation. It can be grown as an epiphyte on rocks and wood, thriving in moderate light conditions ranging from strong to weak. Unlike many plants, Java fern does not require the addition of fertilizers or CO2. It benefits from moving water and can even be grown emersed in terraria or paludaria as long as the substrate remains moist.
Aquascaping & Usage
Java fern offers aquascapers a variety of design options due to its ability to thrive in areas where other plants struggle. It is particularly striking when planted on driftwood in the middle or background of an aquarium. Its dense foliage and dark tangled roots create a visually appealing and natural look, providing fish with ample hideaways and territories.
Propagation
Propagation of Microsorum pteropus is easily achieved by cutting the rhizome with a sharp knife or scissors. It can also be split or broken apart, and daughter plants frequently develop on the leaves and roots. These daughter plants can be separated from the mother plant and grown on driftwood or rocks by fixing them with string. Over time, a dense population of multiple plant generations can form, enhancing the aquarium's aesthetics.
Habitat and Distribution
Microsorum pteropus is widespread across tropical and subtropical Asia, including regions in India, South Japan, and New Guinea. It thrives in a variety of habitats, from submerged rivulets to moist forest ground, showcasing its adaptability to different environments within its native range.