Microsorum Pteropus 'Petite'

Microsorum Pteropus 'Petite' - Dwarf Java Fern with Fine Leaves

The Microsorum Pteropus 'Petite', also known as the Dwarf Java Fern, is a compact variety of the popular Java Fern with finely branched, elegant fronds. This robust fern grows to a maximum height of 15 cm and is perfect for the front and middle of your aquarium. With its fine leaf structure and easy care, the Microsorum Petite is ideal for aquascapers who want to create a delicate, natural look without much maintenance.

Why choose Microsorum Pteropus 'Petite'?

• Compact dwarf variety: Maximum 15 cm high, perfect for smaller aquariums
• Finely branched leaves: Elegant, delicate leaf structure
• Very robust: Resistant to most fish, including cichlids
• Easy to maintain: Requires normal light and has few demands.
• Slow grower: Minimal maintenance, stable plant
• Versatile placement: on wood, stone or in the ground
• Natural look: Creates a lush, forest-like effect

Care and Placement

The Microsorum Pteropus 'Petite' is a rhizome plant, meaning the rootstock (rhizome) should not be buried under sand or gravel. You can use the plant in several ways:

• On decoration: Attach with thin wire or aquarium glue to driftwood or stones
• Front and Middle Zone: Perfect for both zones depending on your aquascape
• As an accent: The fine leaves create a delicate effect
• Groupings: Combine multiple plants for a lush, forest-like effect

The plant grows slowly and, over time, naturally attaches itself to the decorative material with its roots. The delicate leaf structure looks best in normal light.

Technical Specifications

• Placement: Front & center zone | on wood and/or stone
• Maximum height: 15 cm
• Leaf type: Finely branched, fern-like
• Leaf color: Bright to dark green
• Temperature: 20-28°C
• pH: 5.0-8.0
• KH: 0-21
• CO2: 5-40 mg/l (not required, but promotes growth)
• Light requirements: Normal
• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Family: Polypodiaceae
• Type: Rhizome plant (fern)
• Dutch name: Dwarf Java Fern
• Propagation: Via adventitious plantlets on the leaves

Perfect for Natural Aquascapes

The Microsorum Pteropus 'Petite' is ideal for aquascapers looking for a compact fern with fine fronds. This plant is perfect for:

• Nature Aquarium style with natural planting
• Nano aquariums where compact growth fits well
• Biotope aquariums (Southeast Asian biotopes)
• Cichlid aquariums (robust leaves)
• Low-tech and high-tech aquariums
• As a foreground or mid-ground plant
• Wabi-kusa setups
• Paludaria

Combination tips

Combine Microsorum Pteropus 'Petite' with Anubias species for a beautiful contrast between fern-like and broad leaves. It also pairs perfectly with Java moss on the same decorative material. For a natural Southeast Asian habitat, combine the plant with Cryptocoryne species and driftwood.