Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) is a fast-growing, versatile, and hardy aquatic plant that thrives in freshwater aquariums and ponds. Known for its unique, feathery foliage, Hornwort adds a lush, natural look to any aquatic environment. Unlike many plants, Hornwort does not need to be anchored in substrate—this floating or loosely anchored plant can simply be placed in the water where it will grow and spread quickly, making it a great option for aquariums of all sizes.

Hornwort is a true workhorse when it comes to aquarium health. Its rapid growth helps to absorb excess nutrients from the water, improving water quality and reducing the likelihood of algae overgrowth. Additionally, Hornwort releases oxygen as it grows, contributing to the overall well-being of your aquarium’s ecosystem. Whether used as a floating plant or rooted in substrate, Hornwort is easy to care for and highly beneficial to any freshwater tank.

Key Features:

- Feathery, Soft Foliage: Its delicate, fern-like leaves give Hornwort a beautiful, soft texture, making it a striking addition to aquascapes.
- Fast Growing: Hornwort grows rapidly, which helps keep your aquarium balanced by absorbing excess nutrients and outcompeting algae.
- Natural Filtration: By absorbing nitrates and phosphates, it helps keep water quality high and algae levels low.
- Versatile Placement: Can be used as a floating plant or anchored in substrate (though it does not need to be planted to thrive).
- Oxygenating: As a fast-growing plant, Hornwort releases oxygen into the water, improving the health and vitality of fish and other aquatic creatures.

Benefits:

- Algae Control: Helps prevent algae blooms by absorbing excess nutrients, contributing to clearer, cleaner water.
- Improves Water Quality: By absorbing waste products and nitrates, Hornwort helps maintain a balanced ecosystem in your aquarium or pond.
- Fish & Shrimp Habitat: Its dense, feathery growth provides hiding spots and resting places for small fish, shrimp, and other aquatic creatures.
- Low Maintenance: Does not require substrate or special care, making it perfect for beginners or low-maintenance tanks.

Care Instructions:

- Lighting: Thrives in low to moderate light. While it will grow faster with more light, it can tolerate lower lighting conditions and still remain healthy.
- Water Conditions: Prefers a pH range of 6.0–7.5 and can grow in a wide range of water temperatures (65°F to 85°F, or 18°C to 29°C).
- Substrate: No substrate is required—Hornwort can float freely in the water or be anchored to the bottom of the tank using small weights or mesh.
- Maintenance: Regularly trim any excess growth to prevent it from overcrowding the tank or blocking light to other plants. Remove dead or damaged stems to maintain plant health.

Applications:

- Freshwater aquariums
- Ponds and water gardens
- Aquascaping setups
- Natural filtration in aquariums
- Shrimp and fish breeding tanks

Note: As a fast-growing plant, Hornwort can quickly fill up space in the aquarium, so regular pruning may be necessary to keep it from overtaking the tank. It is also ideal for newly set-up tanks, as its rapid growth helps to stabilize the aquarium’s nitrogen cycle.

Hornwort is the perfect addition to any aquarium, whether you're looking for a low-maintenance, natural water purifier or simply want to add a lush, vibrant plant to your tank. Its ability to grow in a wide range of conditions, coupled with its water-clearing and oxygenating properties, makes it an invaluable asset to any aquatic environment.