Microsorum Trident

🌿 Plant Profile

• Scientific Name: Microsorum pteropus 'Trident'

• Common Name: Trident Java Fern

• Origin: Cultivar (possibly derived from Southeast Asia)

• Height: 10–20 cm (4–8 inches)

• pH: 5.5 – 8.0

• Care: Easy

• Light: Low to medium

• CO₂: Not required, but beneficial

• Propagation: Rhizome division or plantlets from leaves

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate

🌱 Care Notes

• Leaf Texture & Appearance: Microsorum Trident features narrow, deeply forked (trident-shaped) leaves. The leaves are finer and more delicate than standard Java Ferns, giving it a graceful, airy appearance. The color is typically vibrant green, and the plant can form dense, attractive clumps over time.

• Placement: Best suited for the midground or attached to hardscape (driftwood, rocks). Its compact form and attractive foliage make it a standout in nature-style aquascapes and low-tech tanks.

• Water Conditions: Very adaptable; thrives in a wide range of water conditions with a temperature range of 18–28°C (64–82°F). Tolerant of varying pH and hardness.

• Lighting: Grows well in low to medium light. High light is not necessary and may encourage algae on the leaves if water conditions are unstable.

• CO₂: Not required, making it perfect for low-tech tanks. However, CO₂ supplementation can improve growth speed and overall plant health.

• Fertilization: Minimal needs. Occasional liquid fertilization in the water column is beneficial, especially in tanks with few fish. Avoid burying the rhizome in substrate to prevent rot.

• Propagation: Very easy via rhizome division or by separating plantlets that form on older leaves. These plantlets can be removed and attached to new surfaces using thread, glue, or fishing line.

• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate. Trident ferns grow slowly but steadily and don’t require frequent trimming, making them ideal for low-maintenance tanks.