Microsorum pteropus, universally known as Java fern, is one of the most popular and reliable aquarium plants in the hobby. This small version comes pre-attached to a natural piece of wood, creating a compact planted feature ideally sized for smaller aquariums, nano set-ups, and shrimp tanks where a larger piece would be out of scale. The broad dark green leaves and natural wood create an immediately naturalistic appearance.

Java fern grows in low to medium light without CO2 injection and is tolerant of a wide range of water conditions and temperatures. Growth is slow but the plant is long-lived and low-maintenance. It is generally left alone by most fish including many cichlids, and shrimp enjoy grazing on the biofilm that forms on the broad leaf surfaces.

The rhizome is pre-attached to the wood so no further attachment is needed — simply rinse and place in the aquarium. Never bury the rhizome in substrate. The small size suits aquariums of 20 litres and above and is particularly effective in shrimp tanks and nano aquascapes.