More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | very fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-21 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 10-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Ceratopteris thalictroides, also known as water sprite, Indian fern, Oriental waterfern, or water hornfern, is an amphibic fern widely distributed in tropical regions. It is a fast-growing plant with delicate, finely pinnate leaves that can be cultivated as a solitary plant in large aquariums. The species is often used by labyrinth fish for building bubble nests and provides hiding spots for fish fry.
Aquarium Suitability
Ceratopteris thalictroides is suitable for aquariums, especially in large tanks, as a background or midground specimen plant. It can be cultivated free-floating on the water surface or planted in the substrate, where it thrives as a submersed plant. The fern requires medium light intensities, CO2 concentrations under 20 mg/l, and nutrient-rich water for optimal growth.
Demands and Hardiness
This fern has an easy care level and is best suited for tanks with temperatures ranging between 22-28°C. It is not suitable for outdoor use in colder climates. Ceratopteris thalictroides tolerates a pH range of 5-8, with medium to high lighting levels and a CO2 concentration of 10-40 mg/l. It has a fast growth rate and benefits from additional CO2 supplementation.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, Ceratopteris thalictroides is utilized as a background or midground plant. Its fine-leaved, light green bushy appearance adds a natural aesthetic to the aquarium. It can also be used as a water surface plant, providing cover for shy or spawning fish. Propagation can be achieved through proliferating leaves or spores.
Propagation
Propagation of Ceratopteris thalictroides can be done by separating plantlets that form in the grooves between the lobes of older leaves. To encourage the development of these plantlets, older leaves should be severed from the plant and left to float on the surface. Spores from spore-carrying fronds can also be collected for propagation.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat, Ceratopteris thalictroides can be found in shallow waters, on muddy ground, and in rice paddies in tropical regions worldwide. The plant can produce emersed leaves in nutrient-rich, wet substrates where it forms finely pinnate foliage. It is a versatile species that adapts to varying aquatic environments for optimal growth and propagation.