Java fern types
You get loads of different Java ferns, but sadly most are only sporadically available in South Africa. This species - Microsorum pteropus - have the biggest variety in leave forms of this whole genus and you will find a leave form for nearly every aquarium need. This combined with their resilience make them an absolute must for beginner aquariums
Note that although called a Java fern, the hardiest one of the all "Java ferns" available are actually Microsorum latifolia
1. Standard Microsorum pteropus - Available here - https://www.aquaticplants.co.za/product-page/microsorum-pteropus-java-fern
The one where the pet trade's journey with this species started.
2. Thorn’s hammer - Available here - https://www.aquaticplants.co.za/product-page/microsorum-pteropus-thor-s-hammer
a. A very rare “Java fern” with thin leafs that split at the tip to form a hammer shape. If you think about it, this variety was originally developed in Poland, therefore the appropriate name.
3. Trident
a. Again a RARE and smaller variety of Java fern. The term “Trident” is derived from the word tripartite - consisting of three parts. Therefore the leaves normally split into 3 parts but it will also display leafs with single or double forms. Adding to that, leafs are also narrower, giving you a spectacular display.
4. Narrow leave
a. As the name describe this is the narrow leaf version of Java fern and with its very narrow leafs a good attraction point. The leaves only grow out to a maximum of 1.25cm wide.
5. Petite
a. Another rare be autiful Java fern. This variety have a thick leaf structure giving it a dense forest feeling, ideal for very shy fish to hide in. With it’s pointed, thinner leafs than Java fern that are a bright green colour. Adding to that the heavy texture on the leaves make it a great addition to your aquarium.
6. Philippine
a. Philippine variety differ from other Java ferns in its water requirements as well. It is found in brackish water and therefore don’t like soft and low pH water. So ensure your dGH is above 10 and pH above 6.6 (not a problem for most South African tap water) and you will still have a VERY hardy and beautiful plant. Signs that your pH or dGH is to low, is the formation of black areas or holes in the leaves.
b. Another rare beautiful Java fern. This variety have a thick leaf structure giving it a dense forest feeling, ideal for very shy fish to hide in. With it’s pointed, thinner leafs than Java fern that are a bright green colour. Adding to that the heavy texture on the leaves make it a great addition to your aquarium.
7. Philippine mini
a. A very attractive member of this “family”. The leaves of Philippine is already smaller than normal and this variety’s leafs are even smaller and narrower, as the name describe. Extremely suitable for smaller aquariums or planted as a bunch in a larger aquarium they are beautiful. The leaves have “fresh” green hues and a lovely pattern on its surface.
b. Philippine variety differ from other Java ferns in its water requirements as well. It is found in brackish water and therefore don’t like soft and low pH water. So ensure your dGH is above 10 and pH above 6.6 (not a problem for most South African tap water) and you will still have a VERY hardy and beautiful plant. Signs that your pH or dGH is to low is the formation of black areas or holes in the leaves.
8. Black Forest
a. A very new addition to the “Java fern” family. It look like a cross between a normal java fern and a narrow leaf version with the difference that the leaves are thicker and have a ruffled texture. This ruffled texture is along the veins that are darker and more pronounced.
9. Microsorum latifolia - Available here - https://www.aquaticplants.co.za/product-page/microsorum-pteropus-latifolia
a. With its large leafs (largest of the “Java ferns”), low demand and resistance to fish eating its leafs, this fern is one of the best “Java ferns” for beginners.
b. The leafs are a bright green with dark green veins, giving you a beautiful contrast.
We will always strive to have some Java ferns in stock for you.
AND
We will strive to find and import the rare varieties for you ;)
CURRENTLY (2020-09-15) we have Microsorum Latifolia, Microsorum pteropus and THOR'S hammer in stock for you :)