Floating fern

Salvinia natans

Family : Salviniaceae

PlantFreshwaterfloating

Floating fern is a small floating fern with spoon-shaped leaves. Ideal for open aquariums.

Floating fern — photo 1 sur 4
Czonek · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain1 / 4
Popularity
Easy plant
standard lighting, few requirements
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
Europe
Poissons et invertébrés d'Europe tempérée.

Description

Leaves are oval, 1–2 cm, light green, with a hairy surface that repels water. They are arranged in pairs along a floating stem. Roots are thin and short. The plant reproduces quickly by fragmentation. It can cover the entire surface if uncontrolled. Provides excellent shelter for fry and reduces light.

Habitat

Region :

This floating fern grows in stagnant or slow waters of ponds, marshes, and canals. It forms dense surface mats.

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature1826 °C
pH67.5
GH310 °dGH
KH26 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
1/5
Diet
Photosynthetic
Min. tank
20 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
2 cm
Lifespan
3 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Fragmentation : séparer les groupes de feuilles.

Care notes

Temperature 18–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, GH 3–10. Moderate lighting (0.5 W/L) is sufficient. No substrate. Avoid strong currents. Remove excess regularly to prevent tank suffocation. Compatible with all fish. Can be used in outdoor ponds in summer. Beware of high temperatures (>28°C) that may cause decline.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References