- Sku: FLAZOLP
- Vendor: Squeaky's Aquatics
Azolla (Azolla caroliniana)
Azolla (Azolla caroliniana), also known as Carolina Mosquito Fern or Fairy Moss, is a tiny, fast-growing floating fern that forms a soft green carpet across the water surface. It is one of the easiest floating plants to keep, with no CO2, substrate, or special lighting required. Sold as a live portion cup. Pair it with the rest of our freshwater aquarium plants to finish your aquascape.
Care Guide
Azolla floats freely and pulls nutrients straight from the water column, which makes it excellent for soaking up excess nitrates and starving out algae. It also provides shade and surface cover that shy fish, fry, and shrimp love. Under bright light and slightly cooler water, the fronds can blush a pretty reddish color.
It grows quickly, so scoop out the excess every week or two and keep part of the surface open for gas exchange and so plants below still get light. Keep surface agitation gentle, since heavy splashing can waterlog the fronds. No dosing is required, though a liquid plant supplement keeps it lush.
Specifications
| Common Names | Azolla, Carolina Mosquito Fern, Water Velvet, Fairy Moss |
| Scientific Name | Azolla caroliniana |
| Plant Type | Floating |
| Care Level | Beginner |
| Lighting | Low to high |
| CO2 | Not required |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Placement | Water surface (floating) |
| Temperature | 60 to 82°F |
| pH | 6.0 to 7.5 |
| Availability | In-store pickup only |
Why Hobbyists Love It
- Natural nutrient export that helps control algae and nitrates
- Shade and surface cover for bettas, fry, and shrimp
- Softens lighting for low-light plants below
- No CO2, substrate, or special equipment needed
Recommended Pairings
- More live aquarium plants to round out your aquascape
- Duckweed and Frogbit for more floating cover
- Nano fish, bettas, and freshwater shrimp that enjoy shaded surface cover
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special lighting or CO2?
No. Azolla thrives under standard aquarium lighting and draws what it needs from the water, so no CO2 or root tabs are needed.
Will it take over my tank?
It can grow fast. Scoop out the excess every week or two and keep some open surface so your other plants still get light and the water can breathe.
Is it safe for shrimp and bettas?
Yes. Floating plants like Azolla are a favorite for shrimp, fry, and bettas because they provide shade and cover.
How do I get my plants?
These are in-store pickup only. We hold your order and cup it fresh when you arrive.
Have a question?
Azolla (Azolla caroliniana)
