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Water Sprite
Ceratopteris thalictroides
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Pteridaceae
📍 India & Southeast Asia
Water Sprite is a versatile aquatic fern that can be grown both floating and rooted. The finely dissected, lacy fronds give it a delicate, feathery appearance. Floating specimens develop broader, more deeply lobed leaves and provide excellent surface cover and fry refuge. A classic, beginner-friendly plant that grows vigorously.
Tank Mates
Peaceful algae-eater that will not damage delicate fronds and benefits from plant cover
Small, peaceful schooling fish that uses plants for shelter and will not uproot or consume the plant
Gentle invertebrate that grazes algae and benefits from dense plant cover for safety
Peaceful, small gourami that appreciates plant cover; may occasionally nibble but generally compatible
Excellent companion plant that creates dense cover and shares similar care requirements
Common Diseases
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, pale coloration, leaf holes or transparent patches
Dose with comprehensive liquid fertilizer (macronutrients and micronutrients) weekly; ensure adequate lighting and consider adding CO2 for faster growth
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green or brown algae coating fronds, reduced light penetration, slowed growth
Increase water changes, reduce light duration to 8-10 hours daily, add algae-eating fish (Otocinclus, Siamese Algae Eater), or manually remove affected leaves
Melting (Decay)
Leaves becoming translucent, mushy, or dissolving; rapid deterioration after planting
Improve water quality with frequent water changes; ensure stable temperature (20–28°C); trim affected leaves; may recover if roots remain healthy
Poor Growth or Stunting
Minimal new leaf development, small or deformed leaves, slow overall expansion
Increase lighting to medium-high levels, add liquid fertilizer, improve water circulation, and ensure pH is within 6.0–8.0 range
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Not required
- light
- Medium–High
- placement
- Floating or rooted
- tank size
- 10 gallons minimum
- growth rate
- Fast
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–8.0
- hardness
- 2–20 dGH
- temperature
- 68–82°F (20–28°C)
Stats
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