Mosquito fern

Azolla filiculoides

Family : Azollaceae

PlantFreshwaterfloating

Small floating aquatic fern, highly invasive in some regions. Forms a green mat on the water surface.

Mosquito fern — photo 1 sur 4 — Kevin Thiele from Perth, Australia · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.01 / 4

Popularity

Easy plant

standard lighting, few requirements

Availability

Common in shops

Shop availability

IUCN Status

Least Concern

Description

Azolla filiculoides is a small floating aquatic fern of the Azollaceae family. Its fronds are 1–2 cm long, lobed, and arranged in rosettes. The plant has a symbiotic relationship with the cyanobacterium Anabaena azollae, which fixes atmospheric nitrogen. It reproduces quickly by fragmentation and can completely cover a water surface. In aquariums, it provides excellent cover for fry and shrimp. Its color ranges from bright green to reddish under strong light.

Habitat

Region :

Stagnant waters, ponds, ditches, rice paddies

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature15–30 °C

pH5–8

GH0–10 °dGH

KH0–5 °dKH

NO₃

≤ 20 mg/L

PO₄

≤ 2 mg/L

CO₂

≤ 0 mg/L

Light

Medium

Care

Difficulty

1/5

Diet

Photosynthetic

Min. tank

10 L

Min. group

Adult size

2 cm

Lifespan

1 years

Temperament

Peaceful

Propagation

fragmentation

Care notes

Azolla filiculoides is very easy to maintain. It prefers moderate to strong light but tolerates low light. Ideal temperature is between 15 and 30 °C. pH 5.0–8.0 and low to medium hardness are suitable. No added CO2 is needed. Liquid fertilization can boost growth. Avoid strong water flow that scatters the plants. Regular thinning is required to prevent overgrowth. Compatible with most fish and shrimp.

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