Microsorium pteropus on Small Wood - Microsorium pteropus

Microsorium pteropus on Small Wood – Microsorum pteropus

Microsorum pteropus on Small Wood, commonly known as Java Fern, is a hardy, easy-care freshwater aquarium plant attached to a natural piece of wood. With its attractive green, elongated leaves and natural growth habit, it makes an excellent addition to planted aquariums, shrimp tanks and community setups. Ideal for beginners, this slow-growing plant thrives in low to moderate lighting and does not require additional CO₂. Already attached to wood, it can be placed directly into your aquarium to create a natural-looking aquascape.

Key Identification

• Common Name: Java Fern on Small Wood

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus

• Plant Category: Epiphytic Aquarium Plants

• Plant Type: Rhizome / Attached Fern

• Placement: Midground, Background or Hardscape

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Care Level: Easy

Natural Origin & Habitat

Java Fern originates from tropical Asia, where it naturally grows along shaded streams, rivers and waterfalls, often attached to rocks, roots and wood. Its ability to tolerate low lighting and varying water conditions makes it ideal for a wide range of freshwater aquariums.

Appearance & Adult Size

This attractive fern features long, lance-shaped green leaves that grow from a sturdy, creeping rhizome.

• Plant Height: Approximately 15–30 cm

• Leaf Colour: Medium to Dark Green

• Growth Habit: Upright and Bushy

• Growth Rate: Slow

Its natural wooden base makes it easy to position among rocks, gravel and other aquarium decorations, creating an established planted appearance.

Aquarium Suitability

Java Fern on Small Wood is suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists. It works particularly well in community aquariums, shrimp tanks, low-tech planted setups and natural aquascaping displays.

The plant requires minimal maintenance and does not need nutrient-rich substrate or additional CO₂.

Recommended Aquarium Placement

Best Position: Midground, Background or Hardscape

Simply position the wood onto the aquarium substrate or among existing rocks and decorations.

The plant is already attached to the wood, so no additional planting is required.

Important: Do not bury the plant's rhizome beneath gravel or sand, as this can cause it to rot.

Water Conditions & Lighting

• Temperature: 20–28°C

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Water Hardness: Soft to Hard

• Lighting: Low to Moderate

• CO₂: Not Required

• Fertilisation: Occasional liquid plant fertiliser is beneficial

• Substrate: Not Required

Java Fern grows best in stable freshwater conditions. It tolerates shaded aquarium areas and does not require intense lighting, making it particularly suitable for low-tech planted aquariums.

Growth & Maintenance

Java Fern is a slow-growing plant that requires very little maintenance.

Occasionally remove damaged or ageing leaves and gently clear away algae that may develop on the foliage.

Over time, the plant will develop new leaves and roots, becoming more established on the wood. Small plantlets may also develop on mature leaves, which can eventually be separated to grow new plants.

Compatibility With Fish & Invertebrates

This plant is suitable for most peaceful freshwater community aquariums, including those containing:

• Tetras and Rasboras

• Guppies and other peaceful livebearers

• Bettas and Dwarf Gouramis

• Corydoras Catfish

• Freshwater Shrimp

• Freshwater Snails

Its broad leaves and wooden base provide useful resting areas, grazing surfaces and shelter for small fish and shrimp.

Care Notes

• Keep the rhizome exposed and avoid burying it.

• Suitable for low-tech aquariums without CO₂ injection.

• Slow growth means frequent trimming is unnecessary.

• Excessive lighting may encourage algae on the leaves.

• Small dark spots underneath mature leaves may be natural reproductive structures rather than disease.

• Some older leaves may deteriorate while the plant adjusts to a new aquarium.

Further Information

Microsorum pteropus on Small Wood is an excellent choice for adding natural greenery and structure to freshwater aquariums without complicated plant care. Its attractive foliage, hardy nature and ability to thrive in lower lighting make it particularly popular for aquascaping, community tanks and beginner planted aquariums.

Already attached to natural wood, it offers a convenient way to introduce a decorative living plant into your aquarium.

Image Disclaimer

Please Note: Images are for illustration purposes only. As this is a natural living plant attached to wood, the size, shape, leaf growth and appearance of the wood may vary from the product pictured. Each piece is unique.