Dwarf Java Fern On LavaRock

Microsorum Pteropus ‘Green Gnome’ (Dwarf Java Fern)

Overview:
Native to Southeast Asia, Dwarf Java Fern is a versatile, easy-to-maintain plant ideal for beginners. It thrives by attaching its roots to hard surfaces like rocks, wood, and tree trunks. It’s slow-growing, adapts well to most aquarium conditions, and is resistant to herbivorous fish due to its chemical properties. A minimum tank size of 10 gallons is recommended.

Key Features:

• Appearance:
  • Height: Up to 15 cm
  • Width: 6-8 inches
  • The lush green leaves create a dense look, making it suitable for mid-ground or background placement. It’s important to remove new plantlets for less density.
• Hardiness:
  A hardy plant that thrives in varied water conditions. Avoid burying its rhizome to prevent decay. Prune any burn spots.

Care Tips:

• Temperature:
  Ideal growth occurs at temperatures between 20°C and 28°C.
• Lighting:
  Prefers low light. Too much light can cause the plant to develop darker leaves or lead to melting and algae growth.
• pH Level:
  Tolerates a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0 for optimal growth.

Additional Requirements:
Doesn’t require additional CO2 or fertilizers. It absorbs nutrients from the water and grows well without a nutrient-rich substrate.

Propagation:
Can be propagated by cutting the rhizome in half and replanting the sections. Avoid burying the plant in the substrate, and attach it to hard surfaces like driftwood.

Unique Facts:
The plant may develop small black spots under the leaves, which are tiny Java ferns that the plant naturally produces.