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Description
Ceratopteris Thalictroides, commonly known as Water Sprite, is an aquatic fern found in freshwater habitats all over the world. It is a fast-growing plant that can be used in aquariums, terrariums, or as a pond plant. It has delicate, lacy, bright green leaves that are perfect for creating a natural look in any aquatic environment. The plant is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Pteridophyta |
| Class | Polypodiopsida |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Parkeriaceae |
| Genus | Ceratopteris |
Appearance
Ceratopteris Thalictroides has thin, light green, feathery leaves that can grow up to 30cm in length. The leaves are branched and can be divided into small segments, giving them a delicate and lacy appearance. The plant grows in a rosette pattern and can reach up to 50cm in height. The plant produces small, spore-bearing structures, known as sporangia, on the underside of the leaves.
Care Guide
Water
Ceratopteris Thalictroides is an aquatic plant and needs to be grown in water. The plant can be grown in a variety of water conditions, but it prefers slightly acidic to neutral water with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The water should be kept clean and well-oxygenated.
Fertilization
Ceratopteris Thalictroides does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional doses of liquid or slow-release fertilizers. The plant can also absorb nutrients from fish waste, so growing it in an aquarium with fish can provide it with all the necessary nutrients.
Soil
Ceratopteris Thalictroides does not require soil as it is an aquatic plant. It can be grown in aquariums, terrariums, or ponds.
Sunlight
Ceratopteris Thalictroides prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some shade but should not be placed in direct sunlight, which can cause the leaves to burn.
Hardiness Zones
Ceratopteris Thalictroides is a tropical plant and can only be grown outside in hardiness zones 10-11. It can be grown indoors anywhere.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ceratopteris Thalictroides is relatively pest-free, but it can be susceptible to snails, which can eat the leaves. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases, such as black spot, which can cause the leaves to turn black and die. To prevent fungal diseases, the plant should be kept in a well-ventilated area with good water circulation.
Habitat
Ceratopteris Thalictroides is found in freshwater habitats all over the world, including ponds, rivers, and swamps. It prefers slow-moving or still water with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ceratopteris Thalictroides be grown in a terrarium?
A: Yes, Ceratopteris Thalictroides can be grown in a terrarium as long as it is kept in water.
Q: Can Ceratopteris Thalictroides be grown in a pond?
A: Yes, Ceratopteris Thalictroides can be grown in a pond as long as the water is clean and well-oxygenated.
Q: Does Ceratopteris Thalictroides require fertilization?
A: Ceratopteris Thalictroides does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional doses of liquid or slow-release fertilizers.
Q: Can Ceratopteris Thalictroides be grown outside in cold climates?
A: No, Ceratopteris Thalictroides is a tropical plant and can only be grown outside in hardiness zones 10-11.
Related Plants
- Ceratopteris Cornuta
- Ceratopteris Pteridoides
- Ceratopteris Siliquosa
References
- https://www.aquariumcarebasics.com/aquatic-plants/water-sprite/
- https://www.aquasabi.com/aquatic-plants/ferns/ceratopteris-thalictroides
- https://www.thesprucepets.com/water-sprite-plant-profile-4684105
