Java Fern

Picture of a Java FernJava FernMicrosorum pteroptusPhoto © Animal-World
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Can I put a Java Fern in my one gallon tank with a betta.   Anonymous

   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


Java Fern, Microsorum pteroptus

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Java Fern! How to propogate this aquatic plant.

Basic guide and everything you need to know to keep your java fern green, plus tips.

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.

Author: Jasmine Brough.
Lastest Animal Stories on Java Fern


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.
  • Anonymous - 2014-10-25
    Of course u can... It's a plant that could handle water hardness...
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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.

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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)! *****

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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.
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