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Delicate, fast-growing, and perfect for creating a natural canopy, Ceratopteris pteridoides—commonly known as Floating Water Sprite—is a versatile aquatic fern loved by aquarists for its lush, leafy appearance and ease of care. Its lacy green foliage provides excellent cover for shy fish and fry, while also soaking up excess nutrients, helping to maintain balanced water conditions in both aquariums and ponds.
Species: Ceratopteris pteridoides
Common Names: Floating Water Sprite, Floating Fern, Water Horn Fern, Antler Fern
Origin: Pantropical – found in still or slow-moving waters throughout Asia, Africa, and the Americas
Light Requirements: Moderate to high – brighter light encourages faster growth and denser foliage
Growth Form: Floating
Maximum Size: Fronds can reach up to 20–30 cm in length
Growth Rate: Fast
Difficulty: Easy
Aquarium Setup:
Best used as a floating plant in tropical freshwater aquariums or ponds, Ceratopteris pteridoides thrives in open-top tanks with gentle surface movement. Its broad, lace-like fronds create dappled shade that reduces algae growth and calms surface-dwelling species. Avoid strong surface agitation, as it prefers still or lightly moving water. Great for fry tanks, community aquariums, and low-tech planted setups.
Water Parameters:
Temperature: 22–30°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–15 dGH)
Growth and Maintenance:
This species grows quickly under the right conditions and may need regular trimming to prevent it from shading out submerged plants. It absorbs nutrients directly from the water column, making it an excellent natural filter and nitrate reducer. No need to plant—simply let it float. If growth slows or leaves yellow, consider adding liquid fertilisers.
Care Tips:
✔ Avoid placing under splashing filters or direct current
✔ Trim back regularly to maintain light penetration for plants below
✔ Excellent for fry and shy fish due to its dense root curtain
✔ Combine with high lighting for best appearance and growth
✔ May compete with light-hungry submerged species—monitor coverage
Compatibility:
Compatible with all peaceful community species. Especially beneficial for gouramis, bettas, tetras, guppies, shrimp, and livebearers. Also ideal in breeding tanks, as its roots and shade provide excellent shelter for fry.
Availability:
Commonly available in the Australian aquarium trade. Often sold loose in bunches or as part of floating plant packs. Ask us about availability or bundle deals with other easy-care floating species.
Disclaimer:
"Due to its fast growth, Ceratopteris pteridoides may need regular trimming to avoid excessive surface coverage in small tanks. Ideal for low-tech and naturalistic setups."