Java Fern

Java FernMicrosorum pteroptusPhoto © Animal-World

   The Java Fern is a good plant to use in aquariums containing herbivorous fish since they will seldom eat it!

The Java Fern Microsorum pteroptus is an amphibious fern which lives with its rhizome attached to rocks or logs at the edge of mountain streams. In the aquarium the Java Fern should be tied with strings to a rock or log until they attach. They grow at a relatively slow to medium pace, therefore making this an easy plant to keep, and can reach a maxium height of 10 inches.

It has been reported that Scats may eat this plant, and could die from it.

For more Information on keeping a planted aquarium see:
About Planted Aquariums, Adding Aquatic Plants For a Healthy Aquarium

Distribution:

   Java Fern Microsorum pteroptus are found naturally in tropical Southeast Asia: Java to the Philippines. Its genus name is often spelled "Microsorium" in many text books, but it is more currently being written as "Microsorum".

Water conditions / lighting:

   Temperature: 64-82° F (18-28° C)
   pH: 5.5 - 7.0
   dCH: 2 - 12

Lighting:

   Light level: Minimal - it is best to keep them away from bright lights.

Propagation:

   Java Ferns propagate by sending out shoots at the leaves and roots that become small plants. The photo above shows many small plants growing from the main plant. The roots of the small plants are brown in the photo.

Availability:

   The Java Fern is readily available.

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StillWater - 2005-05-24 Great information. I've seen people call the shoots that Java Fern produce bearded algea. Thanks for the accurate data. Reply

Barbara - 2003-11-18 Wonderful Plant!!! Attach to bogwood, stones, etc, and allow to grow down it and cascade into the soil. Not at all picky. WILL NOT BE EATEN BY RAMSHORN SNAILS! Grows quickly and is undemanding. I have kept the same plant for 5 years, never had a single complaint. Reply

Ross 14 - 2010-06-04 A great plant when tied down to a rock or wood properly and firmly. It took 5 to 6 weeks to root into sandstone, once rooted the string/thread may be untied. Be careful not to plant directly into aquarium substrate as this will rot the roots of your plant. A great easy plant that does not require much effort and will accept very low light levels. New shoots will also sprout from the rhyzome generally quickly, Co2 is not required but can be added. (A GREAT PLANT)! ***** Reply

Anonymous - 2012-02-14 Can I put a Java Fern in my one gallon tank with a betta. Charlie Roche - 2012-02-14 It would have to be a really small piece of fern. One gallon is not very big but a little piece is OK - java ferns grow like crazy. Alex Burleson - 2012-02-14 One small piece is fine. However, do note that Java Fern can reach large sizes, and may need to be trimmed back a bit when large. Reply

Roy Clarke - 2012-10-09 I have planted some Java into my established bogwood. How many hours of light will they need to survive and grow? Jeremy Roche - 2012-10-09 This plant needs very little light.  Bright lighting should be avoided.  Normal tank/room lighting is usually fine for this plant to thrive. Reply

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