Azolla filiculoides
Origin: North and South America (naturalised worldwide)
Azolla filiculoides, Fairy Moss or Water Fern, is a tiny floating fern that develops stunning red-to-purple hues under bright light and nutrient-limited conditions. A unique nitrogen-fixing plant — it hosts cyanobacteria in its leaves that fix atmospheric nitrogen, supplementing the tank's nutrient budget. Grows rapidly and provides excellent surface cover and shade. A favourite for biotope tanks featuring fish from still or slow-moving waters. Also popular for garden ponds.
Float freely at the water surface. Grows best with good light. Turns green in shade, vivid red-purple under bright light. Trim/harvest regularly to prevent full surface cover. Suitable for cool or tropical tanks. Dry or prune to prevent overgrowth.
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