Ceratophyllum demersum

Datasheet

General Description

• Ceratophyllum demersum, commonly known as Rigid hornwort, is an aquatic plant that thrives in stagnant or slow-flowing water bodies. It is a versatile species found globally and has been a staple in aquaristics since the early days of the hobby.

Aquarium Suitability

• Suitable for aquariums, Ceratophyllum demersum is widely available commercially and from other aquarists. It is known to grow fast and can adapt to a wide range of water conditions (see table).

Demands and Hardiness

• Considered very easy to grow, this rootless plant can flourish both floating and anchored in the ground in soft to very hard water. It does not require additional CO2 supplementation but benefits from it. The plant is hardy against winter conditions, suitable for garden ponds as well.

Aquascaping & Usage

• Best utilized in the background of aquariums, forming dense clusters, and providing shelter and grazing surfaces for shrimp. It is recommended to anchor the plant to prevent it from floating away.

Propagation

• Propagated through fragmentation and cuttings, making it easy to propagate and share among aquarists.

Habitat and Distribution

• Ceratophyllum demersum is a cosmopolitan species found globally, able to thrive in various water bodies, floating or anchored. In colder climates, the plant forms compact shoots in autumn, sinking to the ground to hibernate, then resuming growth in spring.