Ceratophyllum demersum Linnaeus

Hornwort, Rigid hornwort, Coontail, Coon's tail

Ceratophyllum demersum is a perennial and rustic plant that floats freely in calm and nutrient-rich waters. It can form a dense subsurface canopy and reach of height of 5-6m and frequently grows as a mono-specific community.

Submitted by: BAP

Geographical region
Drainage Basin
River catchment
Water body type
Water body name
Water body part
Water body course
Water body: tributary of
Tributary name

Type locality: Cosmopolitan distribution, native to all continents except Antarctica
Conservation status/IUCN Red List: Not Evaluated (NE)
Listed in CITES: No

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Water Chemistry

Water information

Water type: Fresh water
Water color: Clear water
Water transparency: Medium
Concentration of sediments: Medium
Water temperature: °C
Water flow/curent: Slow

Chemical parameters

pH
Conductivity
GH
KH
Dissolved Oxygen

Phytology

Plant form

Submersed

Plant type

Stem

Plant size

5-30+ cm

Plant growth rate

Fast

Plant light demand

Low

CO2

Low

Aquarium equipment

It will grow in waters that are clear or turbid, still or flowing, and warm or ice-covered.

Plant care

Ceratophyllum demersum occupies a wide depth range, between 0.5 and 15.5m. It is classified as a shade-adapted species.

Ceratophyllum demersum has been spread throughout the world via the aquarium and pond trade, and is considered to be a weed of waterways in many regions of the world, due to its ability to spread rapidly, invade a wide range of aquatic habitats, and grow to deeper depths than some other weed species.

Water care

Ceratophyllum demersum is found in ponds, lakes, ditches, and quiet streams with moderate to high nutrient levels. It is a brittle, poorly attached plant, which is prone to dislodgement by water currents and wave action.