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Philippine Java Fern
Leptochilus decurrens
Also known as Philippine Fern, Windelov-type Java Fern
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Polypodiopsida›Polypodiales›Polypodiaceae
Philippine Java Fern is a hardy, slow-growing rhizome plant with narrow, deeply lobed fronds that create an elegant, feathery appearance. It thrives in low to medium light and requires no CO2, making it ideal for beginner aquarists. This epiphytic fern attaches to wood and rock, adding natural texture and shade to any aquascape.
Where it's from
Native to Assam, Bangladesh, Borneo, China South-Central, China Southeast, Christmas I. and 20 more
At a glance
- CO₂
- not required
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- epiphyte
- Temp
- 64–82°F
- 18–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 36–268 ppm
- 2–15 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Compatible livestock
See all 5Non-destructive, will not uproot or damage fronds; excellent algae control
Peaceful schooling fish that provides shade-loving habitat without disturbing the plant
Gentle algae eater that will not damage delicate fronds
Peaceful and non-destructive; provides good visual contrast
Bottom-dwelling catfish that will not disturb the attached fern
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Common diseases 4Rhizome Rot, Algae Overgrowth on Fronds, Frond Melt / Transition Melt, Iron Deficiency
Rhizome Rot
Blackening or mushy rhizome, fronds detaching or melting, foul odor
Ensure rhizome is not buried in substrate or covered by algae. Improve water circulation and reduce organic waste. Remove affected portions with sterile scissors if necessary.
Algae Overgrowth on Fronds
Green, brown, or black algae coating leaves; reduced light penetration to fronds
Increase water circulation, reduce light duration, add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus), or manually remove algae with soft brush. Avoid excess nutrients.
Frond Melt / Transition Melt
Yellowing, browning, or dissolving of older fronds after planting or water parameter changes
This is normal during acclimation. Maintain stable water parameters, ensure low to medium light, and remove dead fronds. New growth will emerge within 2-4 weeks.
Iron Deficiency
Yellowing of new fronds while veins remain green; stunted growth
Add liquid all-in-one fertilizer or iron supplement weekly. Ensure adequate micronutrient availability through fish waste or dosing.
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP) (CC BY 4.0).
At a glance
- CO₂
- not required
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- epiphyte
- Temp
- 64–82°F18–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 36–268 ppm2–15 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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