Microsorum pteropus (Java Fern): hardy plant to attach for low-tech aquariums
An amphibious plant with resilient foliage
Microsorum pteropus, known as Java Fern, is a true amphibious fern: in nature, it extends from the bank to the bottom. Its dark green, tough, decorative foliage is particularly resistant to herbivorous fish. This is a slow-growing, highly tolerant plant, ideal for natural or low-tech aquariums.
A botanical note: the brown-orange dots visible on the underside of some leaves are sporangia (which produce spores in ferns). They are not a disease.
Why choose Java Fern?
- Attach to a root or stone: no substrate required.
- Low-tech: grows without CO₂, in simple conditions and without fertilizer.
- Hardy and highly tolerant: soft water, hard water, or even slightly brackish water—or even… no water at all in a paludarium!
- Tough leaves: excellent resilience with nibbling fish (goldfish).
- Long-lasting midground or background decoration; its sumptuous dark green color highlights lighter plants.
- Easy propagation: by dividing the rhizome, but especially by removing the young plantlets that form at the ends of the leaves.
Planting and cultivation tips
- Never bury the rhizome (risk of rot).
- Attach the plant to a root or stone (using fishing line, a soft tie, or by wedging it between two stones, for example).
- Light: low to medium. Perfect for planting in a less brightly lit area.
- Flow: moderate current. Avoid directing too strong a current at the fronds.
- Care: remove very old, browning leaves. Divide the rhizome from time to time. Replant the baby ferns growing at the ends of the leaves.
- Temperature: tropical plant (optimum from 20 to 28 °C). For aquarium or paludarium use only (does not tolerate cold outdoors).
Possible uses
- Low-tech aquarium: a structural plant requiring no specialized substrate, CO₂, or fertilizer.
- Aquascaping: natural covering for roots and rocks, use of shaded areas, dark green background to play with nuances.
- Paludarium / open tank: can grow emerged in a humid area, allowing for beautiful layouts.
- Killi aquariums: its low light requirements make it suitable for tanks housing species that appreciate dim lighting.
FAQ – Microsorum pteropus / Java fern
How do I attach it correctly?
Position the rhizome against a root or stone and attach it (with fishing line or a soft tie). It will then attach itself.
Does it need CO₂?
No. It grows without CO₂ in a balanced tank. Its slow growth means it requires neither CO₂ nor fertilizer.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is one of the most tolerant plants for starting your first aquarium.
Can I place it on the substrate?
Yes, provided the rhizome remains unburied. Never bury it; it is better to attach it to a piece of décor.
How fast does it grow?
Rather slow-growing. Propagate it by dividing the rhizome, and even more effectively through the plantlets that form at the tips of the leaves.
Additional information
- Scientific name: Microsorum pteropus
- Plant type: slow-growing aquatic fern
- Light: preferably moderate or even low.
- Ideal temperature: 20 to 28°C, minimum 16°C.
- Size: can reach 40 cm for the largest, oldest specimens under the best conditions.
- Packaging: 6 plants (indicative weight: 10 g).
- Guarantee: no rock wool or any artificial substrate of any kind.
- Recommendation: As a precaution, please never release this plant into the wild. It is not native to our regions and should not normally become naturalized, but we must protect our ecosystems.
