Needle Leaf Java Fern (Microsorum Pteropus)

Needle Leaf Java Fern is a beautiful and hardy aquarium plant known for its long, narrow leaves and deep green coloration. This variety of Java Fern adds a natural, flowing appearance to planted aquariums and is highly valued by aquascapers for its unique leaf shape.

Unlike many aquarium plants, Java Fern does not require planting in substrate. Instead, it grows best when attached to driftwood, rocks, or other hardscape, where it slowly spreads and develops into dense clusters.

Its hardy nature makes it an excellent plant for beginners and experienced aquarists alike, thriving in a wide range of aquarium conditions.

At N8 Aquatics, our plants are grown and maintained in healthy aquariums to ensure strong, established specimens ready for your tank.

Why Aquarists Love Java Fern

Needle Leaf Java Fern is one of the most popular aquarium plants because it is:

• extremely hardy
• low maintenance
• adaptable to many water conditions
• ideal for beginner planted tanks
• perfect for attaching to driftwood or rocks

Its thin leaves create beautiful texture in aquascapes and provide shelter for small fish and shrimp.

Plant Information

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus
• Common Name: Needle Leaf Java Fern
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Lighting: Low to moderate
• CO2: Not required
• Difficulty: Very easy
• Placement: Midground / background

Care Requirements

Needle Leaf Java Fern thrives in a wide range of aquarium setups.

• Temperature: 20–28 °C
• pH: 6.0 – 7.5
• GH: 3 – 12 dGH
• Lighting: Low to moderate lighting works best.

This plant is very adaptable and performs well even in low-tech aquariums without CO2 injection.

How To Plant Java Fern

Java Fern should never be buried in substrate.

Instead:

• attach to driftwood
• tie to rocks
• glue to hardscape with aquarium-safe glue
• wedge into crevices

The plant's rhizome must remain exposed to prevent rot.

Over time the roots will naturally attach to the hardscape.

Aquascaping Uses

Needle Leaf Java Fern is ideal for creating:

• natural aquascapes
• jungle-style planted tanks
• shrimp aquariums
• low-tech planted tanks

Its thin leaves add beautiful movement and texture when placed near driftwood or rock structures.

Compatible Aquariums

This plant works well in almost any aquarium including:

• nano aquariums
• community tanks
• shrimp tanks
• rainbowfish tanks
• guppy tanks
• betta tanks

It is also resistant to most fish nibbling.

Why Buy Plants From N8 Aquatics

• Healthy aquarium-grown plants
• Free from pests and algae where possible
• Ideal for planted aquariums
• Grown in stable aquarium conditions

Our plants are maintained alongside our aquariums to ensure strong, healthy specimens.

Pickup Information

N8 Aquatics currently operates as a local pickup-only breeder and plant supplier in Central Queensland.

Orders are collected by appointment after purchase confirmation.

Important

All plants may vary slightly in size and appearance depending on growth stage.

Plants should be rinsed before adding to your aquarium.