Species › Plants › Mexican Mosquito Fern

Mexican Mosquito Fern

Azolla mexicana

CommonPlant
Illustration of Mexican Mosquito Fern (Azolla mexicana)

Mexican Mosquito Fern is a small, floating aquatic fern that forms dense mats on the water's surface. Its vibrant green fronds can turn reddish in full sun, adding a splash of color to ponds and wetlands. This plant is known for its symbiotic relationship with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria.

Habitat
It is found in still or slow-moving freshwater bodies like ponds and ditches.
Diet
Provides habitat and food for aquatic insects and small fish.
How common
Common

Best time to see a Mexican Mosquito Fern

The best time to see a Mexican Mosquito Fern is June–October, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 148 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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