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Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine'
Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine'
Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' is a captivating variety of Java fern, distinguished by its elongated leaves and remarkable hardiness. This plant is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a slow-growing and low-maintenance species capable of adapting to various aquarium conditions.
Class:Liliopsida
Order:Polypodiales
Family:Polypodiaceae
Genus:Microsorum
Species:Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine'
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Water Temperature
4 - 30 °C
pH Value
5 - 8
Water type
Freshwater
Light
Low to High
CO2
High
KH
0 - 14 dKH
Species description
Geographical Origin and Habitat: The 'Philippine' variety of Microsorum pteropus likely originates from the Philippines, an archipelago known for its rich aquatic biodiversity. In its natural habitat, it commonly attaches to submerged rocks and driftwood in streams and flooded areas, thriving in the partial shade provided by overhead vegetation. Its aerial roots allow it to anchor firmly, resisting currents and flourishing in moist, submerged environments. This adaptability to varied conditions makes it a robust and widespread species within these tropical ecosystems.
Taxonomy & Genetics: Scientifically classified within the Polypodiaceae family, Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' is considered a cultivar or geographical variant of the species M. pteropus. Its 'Philippine' designation indicates a specific geographical origin, suggesting potential distinctive morphological or genetic differences compared to other Java fern varieties. Taxonomically, Java fern is known for its ability to produce numerous cultivars, often identified by names reflecting their leaf shape or provenance, but all share the robust genetic foundation of the parent species. This particular selection was likely isolated or cultivated for its unique aesthetic characteristics.
Physical Structure: The physical structure of Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' is characterized by a creeping, thick rhizome from which both leaves and roots emerge. The thin, dark roots cling tenaciously to any available surface, while the rhizome must remain exposed to the water to prevent rot. Its leaves are typically elongated and lanceolate with a well-defined petiole, capable of reaching considerable sizes depending on growing conditions. Mature leaves often display small, brown sori on their undersides, which are sporangia containing spores, indicating sexual reproduction, though vegetative propagation is more common in aquariums.
Color & Texture: The leaves of Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' display a vibrant green color, ranging from a medium to a deep, intense shade, influenced by light intensity and nutrient availability. The leaf surface is smooth and slightly leathery to the touch, lending the plant a robust and resilient texture. Unlike some other Java fern varieties, this 'Philippine' cultivar tends to have narrower and more elongated leaves, giving it an elegant and less frilly appearance. Its chromatic contrast against dark driftwood and rocks, to which it is often anchored, further enhances its natural beauty within the aquarium.
Care, breeding and tankmates
Lighting and CO2: Guidance about lighting and co2 for Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Nutrition and Substrate: Guidance about nutrition and substrate for Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Water Chemistry: Guidance about water chemistry for Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Space Management and Positioning: Guidance about space management and positioning for Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Pruning: Guidance about pruning for Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Risks and Disease: Guidance about risks and disease for Microsorum pteropus 'Philippine' must rely exclusively on the parameters and sources listed on this record.
Geographic Origin and Distribution
The 'Philippine' variety of Microsorum pteropus likely originates from the Philippines, an archipelago known for its rich aquatic biodiversity. In its natural habitat, it commonly attaches to submerged rocks and driftwood in streams and flooded areas, thriving in the partial shade provided by overhead vegetation. Its aerial roots allow it to anchor firmly, resisting currents and flourishing in moist, submerged environments. This adaptability to varied conditions makes it a robust and widespread species within these tropical ecosystems.
Origin
South and Southeast Asia
Plant profile
- Placement
- No verified data available
- Botanical form
- No verified data available
- Growth
- No verified data available
- Substrate
- No verified data available
- Column fertilization
- No verified data available
- Root fertilization
- No verified data available
- Trimming
- No verified data available
- Propagation
- No verified data available
- Nutrients
- No verified data available
- Sensitivity
- No verified data available
- Layout role
- No verified data available
Image gallery
Licensed images linked to the species or, when marked, to the closest representative taxon.
Related species
Recommendations grouped by close relatives, companion choices, and similar care.
