Ceratophyllum demersum, commonly known as hornwort, coontail, or rigid hornwort, is a fascinating and widely distributed submerged aquatic plant. Native to nearly every continent, excluding Antarctica, this rootless wonder is a popular choice for both aquariums and ponds due to its adaptability and beneficial properties.
Identifying Hornwort:
Ceratophyllum Demersum is easily recognizable by its dense, bushy appearance formed by slender, branching stems that can reach impressive lengths. Its leaves are its most distinctive feature: they grow in whorls of 6 to 12 around the stem and are forked multiple times into fine, stiff, and often slightly toothed segments, giving it a “coontail” look. Unlike many aquatic plants, hornwort lacks true roots and either floats freely or anchors itself loosely among substrate or decorations using specialized leaves.
Benefits in Aquariums and Ponds:
Hornwort offers numerous advantages in aquatic setups. Its rapid growth makes it an efficient natural filter, absorbing excess nitrates, phosphates, and other waste products, thus helping to maintain water quality and control algae growth. Through photosynthesis, it significantly oxygenates the water, crucial for the health of fish and other aquatic life. Its dense foliage provides excellent shelter for fry and small invertebrates, increasing their survival rates. Moreover, many herbivorous fish tend to avoid eating hornwort due to its slightly rough texture and taste, making it a resilient addition to community tanks.
Care and Propagation:
Caring for hornwort is remarkably easy. It thrives in a wide temperature range (15-30°C or 59-86°F) and tolerates various lighting conditions, from low to high. While it can be anchored, it often grows best when left floating, allowing maximum access to light and carbon dioxide. Propagation is incredibly simple: just snip off a healthy section of the stem, and it will readily grow into a new plant. This easy propagation makes it a cost-effective way to fill out tanks or share with fellow enthusiasts.