Contents
Description
Azolla Pinnata, also known as the Mosquito Fern or Water Velvet, is a small aquatic fern that floats on the surface of still or slow-moving water. It is native to tropical regions and can be found in Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This plant is known for its ability to fix nitrogen, making it a valuable addition to water gardens and natural ecosystems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Azollales |
| Order | Azollaceae |
| Family | Azollaceae |
| Genus | Azolla |
Appearance
Azolla Pinnata has small, triangular leaves that are a bright green color. They are covered in fine hairs that give them a velvety texture. The leaves are arranged in pairs along a central stem and can grow up to 1 cm in length. The plant forms dense mats on the surface of the water, which can provide a habitat for small aquatic animals.
Care Guide
Azolla Pinnata is easy to care for and is a great option for water gardens or natural ponds. Here are some tips for keeping your Azolla healthy:
- Water: Azolla Pinnata requires still or slow-moving water to grow. Make sure the water in your pond or container is not too turbulent.
- Fertilization: Azolla is a nitrogen-fixing plant and does not require additional fertilizer. Too much nitrogen can actually harm the plant.
- Soil: Azolla does not grow in soil, but rather floats on the surface of the water.
- Sunlight: Azolla prefers partial shade, but can tolerate full sun as long as the water stays cool.
- Hardiness Zones: Azolla Pinnata is hardy in zones 9-11, but can be grown indoors as a houseplant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Azolla Pinnata is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by high levels of nitrogen in the water, which can cause the plant to turn yellow and die off. To prevent this, make sure not to over-fertilize your water garden and keep the water clean and well-aerated.
Habitat
Azolla Pinnata can be found in a variety of aquatic habitats, including ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It prefers warm, tropical climates and can be found in Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Azolla Pinnata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Azolla Pinnata can be grown indoors as a houseplant as long as it is kept in a container with still or slow-moving water.
Q: How fast does Azolla Pinnata grow?
A: Azolla Pinnata can grow rapidly under the right conditions, with some mats doubling in size in just a few days.
Q: Can Azolla Pinnata be used to control mosquito populations?
A: Yes, Azolla Pinnata is also known as the Mosquito Fern because it can help control mosquito populations by providing a habitat for mosquito-eating insects like dragonflies.
Q: Is Azolla Pinnata safe for fish and other aquatic animals?
A: Yes, Azolla Pinnata is safe for fish and other aquatic animals and can provide a valuable source of food and shelter.
Related Plants
- Azolla Caroliniana
- Azolla Filiculoides
- Azolla Mexicana
References
- https://www.azollagenome.org/
- https://www.azolla.org/
- https://www.aquasabi.com/plants/fern/azolla-pinnata
