Java Fern is one of the most popular and low-maintenance aquatic plants out there. It’s a great choice for beginners, but even experienced aquarists love it for its hardiness and adaptability. Not only does it add a lush, natural look to your tank, but it also helps keep the water clean and provides a home for beneficial microorganisms.
In this post, we’ll be diving deep into the world of Java Fern care, from lighting to fertilizing, and everything in between.
| Care Data | Description |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Microsorum pteropus |
| Appearance | Delicate, green leaves |
| Size | Can grow up to 12 inches (30cm) |
| Tank Size Requirement | Minimum 10 gallons (40L) |
| Water Parameters | Temp 60-85°F (15-29°C), pH 6-8, dKH 4-20 |
| Lighting Requirements | 50-150 PAR, 20-50 uMol/m²s |
| Fertilization | Not heavy, can benefit from root tabs or liquid |
| Propagation | By dividing rhizome or spores from leaves |
| Can grow Emersed | Yes |
| Can grow Submerged | Yes |
| Humidity % required for emersed growth | 80-90% |
| Variants | Narrow Leaf, Windelov, Trident, Needle Leaf |
Appearance
Java Fern has long, green, and delicate leaves that are typically narrow and pointed, and have a distinctive texture that makes them stand out in an aquarium.
Note: It is important to keep in mind that the appearance of the different varieties of Java Fern can be quite variable and may not always be consistent with the above descriptions. It’s always best to check the plant itself before purchasing it.
Size
Java Fern is a moderate to slow growing plant, and it can grow up to 12 inches (30cm) in height and width.
On average, Java Fern can take several months to a year to reach a size their maximum size in an aquarium. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the growth rate can vary greatly depending on the specific conditions of the aquarium and the variant of the plant.
As a slow-growing plant, it may take several years or longer to reach its maximum size.
Benefits to the Aquarium
Java Fern helps to keep the water clean, provides a home for beneficial microorganisms, cover for inhabitants, and adds a natural look to the tank. It can be used as a background plant or as a foreground accent.
Water Parameters
Java Fern is adaptable to a wide range of water conditions. It prefers a temperature range of 60-85°F (15-29°C) and a pH range of 6-8. It also prefers a water hardness of 4-20 dKH.
Lighting Requirements
Java Fern is adaptable to a wide range of lighting conditions, but it prefers moderate to high lighting. It can survive in low light conditions, but it will grow more slowly and may not reach its full potential. Under moderate lighting, Java Fern will grow taller and more vigorously.
The ideal lighting for Java Fern is between 50-150 PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) and/or between 20-50 uMol/m²s. High-quality LED lights, T5 or T8 fluorescent lights, or metal halide lights are all suitable options for providing optimal lighting for Java Fern.
It’s important to note that while the plant can tolerate low light, it’s not recommended for the long-term health of the plant. It’s essential to provide the appropriate lighting to ensure the plant’s growth and vitality.
Tank Placement
Java Fern can be planted in substrate or left floating. If planted, it should be anchored to driftwood or rocks. It prefers moderate to high lighting, but can adapt to low light conditions. It prefers still to moderate water flow.
How to Plant
When planting Java Fern, it’s important to avoid burying the rhizome in the substrate. The rhizome is the thick, underground stem that anchors the plant and produces new growth. If the rhizome is buried in the substrate, it can lead to rot, which can ultimately kill the plant. This is because the rhizome needs to be exposed in order to properly absorb oxygen, which is essential for the plant’s survival.
To avoid this, it’s best to simply attach the rhizome to a piece of driftwood or a rock using fishing line or thread. This will allow the rhizome to properly absorb oxygen while still being anchored securely in the aquarium until it establishes new roots.
Fertilization & Improving Growth
Java Fern is not a heavy feeder and does not require a lot of fertilization. In fact, too much fertilization can cause an overgrowth of algae and harm the plant. However, if the plant is not growing as desired, a little bit of fertilization can be beneficial.
The best way to fertilize Java Fern is by using root tabs, which are small pellets that are placed in the substrate near the roots of the plant. These root tabs release fertilizer slowly over time and provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow.
Another method of fertilization is by using liquid fertilizer, which can be added to the water column. This method is less preferred as Java Fern doesn’t grow or feed heavily enough to justify the use. However, if you decide to use this method, it is important to use a fertilizer that is low in nitrates and phosphates.
It is also important to note that if you are using CO2 injection in your aquarium, you may need to add more fertilizer as CO2 helps the plant absorb nutrients.
It is best to fertilize Java Fern once every 3-4 weeks, but this can vary depending on the individual plant and the conditions it is provided with. It is important to monitor the plant and make adjustments as needed.
It’s worth noting that the best way to ensure optimal growth of your Java Fern is to provide it with the right water parameters and lighting. Fertilization should only be used as a supplement to these basic needs.
Deficiencies
Java Fern, like most plants, requires certain nutrients to grow and thrive. However, if certain nutrients are lacking, it can result in various deficiency symptoms. Here are some common nutrient deficiencies in Java Fern and how they present:
- Iron Deficiency: Iron is an essential nutrient for Java Fern, and a lack of it can result in yellowing of the leaves. The older leaves will be affected first and will turn yellow starting at the tips and working inward. To correct an iron deficiency, you can add a liquid iron supplement to the water or use a substrate that is high in iron.
- Potassium Deficiency: Potassium is another essential nutrient for Java Fern, and a lack of it can result in browning of the tips of the leaves. The browning will start at the tips and work inward, leaving the tips of the leaves looking burned. To correct a potassium deficiency, you can add potassium-rich fertilizers to the water or use a substrate that is high in potassium.
- Nitrogen Deficiency: Nitrogen is an essential nutrient for Java Fern and a lack of it can result in stunted growth and pale green leaves. The leaves will look smaller than normal and will be pale in color. To correct a nitrogen deficiency, you can add a liquid nitrogen supplement to the water or use a substrate that is high in nitrogen.
- Phosphorus Deficiency: Phosphorus is an essential nutrient for Java Fern, and a lack of it can result in dark green leaves. The leaves will be dark green in color and will be smaller than normal. To correct a phosphorus deficiency, you can add a liquid phosphorus supplement to the water or use a substrate that is high in phosphorus.
Note: These symptoms can also be caused by other factors such as lighting, temperature or water quality. It’s essential to test the water parameters to rule out other factors before identifying nutrient deficiencies. Also, be sure to follow the recommended dosage when adding fertilizers to the water.
Propagation
Java Fern can be propagated by dividing the rhizome (preferred method) or by taking spores from the undersides of the leaves and planting them, which is an advanced method. Occasionally, the spores will begin to grow underwater, and new plantlets will grow. Those plantlets can simply be left to grow or gently removed and planted elsewhere.
To propagate Java Fern from spores, follow these steps:
- First, carefully remove the leaves that have spores on them and place them on a piece of paper or a tray.
- Allow the spores to dry for a few days.
- Once the spores are dry, they can be collected and planted in a container filled with a suitable substrate, such as sand or peat moss.
- Keep the container in a warm and humid environment, with a temperature between 75-85°F (24-29°C) and a humidity level of 80-90%.
- Mist the substrate regularly to keep it moist and maintain high humidity.
- After 2-3 weeks, the spores will germinate and tiny plantlets will start to grow.
- Once the plantlets have grown large enough, they can be transplanted into an aquarium or another container.
- Keep in mind that propagating Java Fern from spores can be a slow process and it may take several weeks or months for the plantlets to grow large enough to be transplanted.
It’s important to note that the success rate for propagating Java Fern from spores can be low.
Emersed Growth
Java Fern can be grown both submerged and emersed. When grown emersed, the leaves will be taller and thinner, whereas when grown submerged the leaves will be shorter and wider.
Variants
There are several popular variants of Java Fern available that are all characterized by their delicate and green leaves. Each variant has its own unique features and characteristics. Below we will go into detail with the most commonly available varieties and provide a list of all known variants.
Narrow Leaf Java Fern
This variant is characterized by its narrow and pointed leaves, which are typically half the width of regular Java Fern leaves. This variant is ideal for aquarists who want to create a natural and delicate look in their aquarium.
Windelov Java Fern
This variant is known for its delicate, feathery leaves and is named after its discoverer, Jørgen Windeløv. It is a unique and beautiful variant that is perfect for aquarists who want to add an elegant touch to their tank.
Trident Java Fern
This variant has three lobes on the leaves, which give it a unique and striking appearance. It is a great choice for aquarists who want to add a little more character to their tank.
History and Origin
Java Fern is native to Southeast Asia, specifically Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, and can be found growing in a variety of environments, from rivers and streams to swamps and flooded forests. The plant has been used in aquariums for many years and is known for its hardiness and adaptability.
It’s discovery is debated, but our research indicates the plant was first described by the botanist J.F.Gmelin in 1768 and later named and classified in 1824 by the German botanist, Carl Ludwig Willdenow. The species name “pteropus” comes from the Greek word “pteron,” meaning “feather,” and “ops,” meaning “eye,” alluding to the feather-like appearance of the leaves.
Java Fern is one of the most versatile and hardy plants you can add to your aquarium. It can survive in a wide range of water conditions and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance. It’s also a great way to give your fish a natural environment and provide a home for beneficial microorganisms. With the right care, your Java Fern will thrive and add a beautiful, natural touch to your tank. So, go ahead and give it a try, your fish will thank you!
Tim Priest, a renowned aquarium expert with over 15 years of experience in aquatic gardening and fish education, is dedicated to helping enthusiasts create stunning and thriving aquatic environments. As the founder of LearnTheAquarium.com, Tim shares his wealth of knowledge, passion, and expertise through engaging articles, educational resources, and personalized advice.
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