Mexican mosquito fern (Azolla mexicana)
Care, watering, light and tips for Mexican mosquito fern on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Salviniaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 1 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Mexican mosquito fern
Azolla mexicana, also known as 'Mexican mosquito fern' or 'Mexican waterfern', is a small floating aquatic fern that forms dense green mats on the water's surface. Its leaves are tiny and overlapping, giving it a velvety texture. It is excellent for ponds, freshwater aquariums, or as a groundcover in slow-moving water bodies, helping to control algae and providing shelter for aquatic fauna.
Native range
North and Central America
Care tips
It requires bright to partial sunlight for optimal growth, but can tolerate some shade. It floats freely on the water surface, preferably in still or slow-moving water, with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. It does not need substrate, as it obtains its nutrients directly from the water. Avoid using pesticides or herbicides near it, as it is very sensitive to chemicals.
How to save a dying Mexican mosquito fern
- Warning signs
- Leaves turning yellow/brown, disintegrating, or sinking.
- First aid
- Remove debris, ensure clean, chlorine-free water, and bright indirect light.
- What kills it
- Contaminated water, sudden pH changes, nutrient deficiency, or too much direct sun.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if you act quickly and correct water and light conditions.