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Description
Salviniales, also known as the water ferns, is an order of ferns that are mostly aquatic or semi-aquatic. There are about 10 families within Salviniales, including Azollaceae, Marsileaceae, Salviniaceae, and more. These ferns are commonly found near water bodies, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes, and grow in both tropical and temperate regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Salviniales |
| Family | Various |
| Genus | Various |
Appearance
Salviniales ferns have a unique appearance compared to other ferns. They have small, floating leaves that are either heart-shaped or clover-like in shape. The leaves are often densely arranged on the stem, giving the ferns a bushy appearance. Some species of Salviniales also have small, bulb-like structures that grow at the base of their leaves, which can take in nitrogen from the air and water.
Care Guide
When it comes to caring for Salviniales ferns, it’s important to keep in mind that they are mostly aquatic or semi-aquatic plants. Here are some tips for keeping them healthy:
- Water: Salviniales ferns need to be kept in water, either partially or fully submerged. Make sure to change the water regularly to prevent the buildup of algae and bacteria.
- Fertilization: These ferns don’t require much fertilizer, but you can add a small amount of liquid fertilizer to the water every few weeks for added nutrients.
- Soil: Salviniales ferns don’t need soil, but you can place them in a container with a small amount of aquatic soil or gravel at the bottom.
- Sunlight: These ferns prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight, so avoid placing them in direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
- Hardiness Zones: Salviniales ferns are hardy in USDA zones 8-11, but some species can tolerate cooler temperatures.
Common Pests & Diseases
Salviniales ferns are generally not prone to many pests or diseases. However, they can be susceptible to root rot if they are kept in water that is too stagnant or if they are overwatered. Additionally, some species can attract mosquitoes, so make sure to change the water regularly and add mosquito dunks to prevent their larvae from developing.
Habitat
Salviniales ferns are native to both tropical and temperate regions around the world. They are commonly found in and around water bodies, such as ponds, lakes, and marshes. Some species can also be found growing on wet rocks or in moist soil near streams or rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Salviniales ferns be grown indoors?
A: Yes, they can be grown indoors as long as they are kept in a container with water and placed in a spot with partial shade or filtered sunlight.
Q: How often should the water for Salviniales ferns be changed?
A: The water should be changed every 1-2 weeks to prevent the buildup of algae and bacteria.
Q: Can Salviniales ferns be propagated?
A: Yes, they can be propagated by dividing the plant at the roots and replanting the sections in new containers with fresh water.
Q: Are Salviniales ferns toxic to pets?
A: While Salviniales ferns are not known to be toxic to pets, it’s always a good idea to keep them out of reach of curious pets.
Related Plants
- Azolla
- Marsilea
- Pteris
- Nephrolepis
References
- Salviniales. (n.d.). In Britannica. Retrieved June 25, 2021, from https://www.britannica.com/plant/Salviniales
- Salviniales Order. (n.d.). In The Ferns and Fern Allies of New Brunswick. Retrieved June 25, 2021, from https://bioseg.nbed.nb.ca/bioseg/fern/salviniales/salviniales.html
- Salviniales. (n.d.). In The Plant List. Retrieved June 25, 2021, from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/P/Salviniales/
