Microsorum pteropus (Java Fern)

Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) is an extremely hardy, slow-growing aquatic fern from Southeast Asia, ideal for freshwater aquariums. It thrives under low-to-moderate light, requires no CO2 supplementation, and must be tied to rocks or driftwood rather than buried in the substrate.

Care Requirements

• Lighting:
  Low to medium; high light can burn or melt the leaves.

• Water Parameters:
  Temperature of 20–28°C (68–82°F) and a pH range of 6.0–7.5.

• Placement:
  Attach to hardscape (driftwood or rocks) using thread, fishing line, or aquarium-safe glue. Never bury the horizontal rhizome, or the plant will rot.

• Nutrients:
  Absorbs nutrients from the water column; liquid fertilizers are optional but helpful.

Key Features & Propagation

• Tough Foliage:
  Leathery, dark green leaves resist being eaten by herbivorous fish.

• Reproduction:
  Spawns tiny baby plantlets on the underside of mature leaves that can be plucked and replanted.

• Common Varieties:
  Includes Narrow Leaf, Broad Leaf, Windeløv (lace-like tips), and Trident.