Description

Water Sprite (Ceratopteris thalictroides) is a versatile, fast-growing aquatic fern popular in freshwater aquariums for its feathery foliage and easy care. Its adaptable nature allows it to be grown rooted in the substrate or floating on the water’s surface.

Key characteristics

Appearance: Water Sprite has delicate, lacy, light-green leaves that create a feathery or bushy appearance. Its leaf shape can vary depending on whether it is grown submerged or floating.

Adaptable growth: It can be grown either planted in the substrate or as a floating plant. As a floater, its extensive roots hang down into the water column, providing a foraging area for shrimp and fry.

Rapid growth rate: Under the right conditions, Water Sprite is a very fast grower, absorbing nutrients directly from the water column. This rapid growth makes it effective at outcompeting algae for nutrients.

Easy care: This is a very hardy and undemanding plant, making it ideal for beginners. It can tolerate a wide range of water parameters, including low-to-medium lighting and minimal CO2 supplementation.

Natural filtration: It acts as a natural water filter, absorbing excess nitrates, ammonia, and other waste, which helps maintain a healthier and cleaner tank.

Water parameters: While it is highly adaptable, it thrives in water temperatures of 68–82°F (20–28°C) and a pH range of 6.0–7.5. It is most suitable for slow-moving or still water.