Microsorm pteropus, commonly known as Java Fern, is one of the very best aquarium plants for beginners, and at the same time a mainstay for even more experienced hobbyists, especially those who enjoy the “Nature Aquarium” style. Java fern is very adaptable, and will grow happily in very low light “fish tanks” with no CO2 but will also do well at much higher light levels with supplemental CO2 as long as the water is kept clean. (otherwise, like other slow growing plants, it can become infested with algae in a high light situation) It is also one of the few plants that can be used successfully with many species of Rift Lake cichlids.

It is important to attach Java ferns to either a piece of wood or rock and not to bury the roots in the substrate or they can rot. The plant reproduces easily in the aquarium, both by rhizome and by producing plantlets on the tips of older leaves.

Common Name:     Java Fern

Family Name:          Polypodiaceae

Native To:                Asia

Lighting:                 Low

Requirements:        Undemanding 

Growth Form:         Rhizome 

Growth Rate:           Slow

Placement in Tank:   Mid-background