Rigid hornwort

Description

Ceratophyllum demersum, also known as hornwort or coontail, is a ubiquitous aquatic plant found in stagnant to slow-flowing waterbodies. It has been used in aquaristics since the beginning of the hobby. This plant is a collective name for various species that can only be differentiated by their fruit spines, which do not form in aquarium conditions. Ceratophyllum demersum adapts extremely well to life underwater, with its flowers opening under water and pollen transfer through hydrophily. The cultivation of this plant is easy, as it is rootless and grows equally well floating or anchored on the ground. Hornwort thrives in soft to very hard water and tolerates a wide temperature range. It is suitable for garden ponds and aquariums, with short shoots forming in autumn that hibernate and start growing again in spring. In aquariums, Ceratophyllum demersum does not require additional CO2 but grows fast anyway. Its ability to absorb nutrients quickly makes it effective against algae, and it produces a natural algae growth inhibitor. The plant should be trimmed frequently due to its rapid growth and anchored regularly to prevent floating. Ceratophyllum demersum is often used in the background of aquariums, forming dense clusters that provide hiding places for shrimp and other small animals.