Updated September 2018
The Java Fern, or Microsorum pteropus to give its proper scientific name, is often considered to be a collective term for a huge variety of plants.
In truth the java fern is one single species of aquatic plants. However because of the sheer variety of shapes and sizes that are found in the leaves of the fern, you could be forgiven for thinking otherwise.
This is a type of plant where each individual specimen can look completely different to all of the others within its species.
In the wild waters of its native seas, the Microsorum pteropus can be found growing in large clumps. The fern will naturally attach itself to larger structures such as driftwood, rocks and reefs.
- If you’re planning to put some of this hardy fern in your fish tank or aquarium, it’s worth noting that if you don’t place the Java fern plants next to something that they can latch onto and grow around, you can expect them to try and cling to the side of your tank. This can make cleaning the tank or even changing your fish tank, very difficult.
- Rocks provide natural crevices for plants to root.
The java fern is a greatly variable and highly adaptable species of pond plant.
Where does Java fern originate?
The fern actually originates from the seas in and around South East Asia, and would be a common sight for all fish originating from that area. In one form or another, the java fern is commonplace right across the South East Asia region.
People who are especially interested in making their ponds or fish tanks resemble a natural environment for its inhabitants, would be well placed to take a look at the java fern in more detail.
Benefits of adding Java fern to your fish tank
As fish owners, we all want our fish to live as happy and fulfilled a life as possible. This is only made possible by keeping our fish in an environment akin to that which the fish would find itself were it living in the wild.
Tropical fish of the South East Asia region would most likely encounter the java fern on a regular, if not daily basis. So if you’re keeping fish from around this area in your tanks or ponds, then you may well find this fern a perfect fit for your fish.
Providing a wide selection of vegetation is a great stimulant for your fish too. Therefore contributing towards a much happier and more satisfying life for your fish.
The benefits of outfitting your pond or aquarium with these kinds of colorful and natural java fern are more far reaching than just enhancing the happiness and well being of your fish.
Check out this video below. This gentleman is brave enough to show how he put together his aquarium using Java Fern. I think he did a great job! Click on his youtube link for more information.
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