Ceratophyllum demersum
commonly known as hornwort, rigid hornwort, coontail, or coon’s tail, is a fascinating aquatic plant. Let’s dive into its intriguing features:
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Description:
- Ceratophyllum demersum is a submerged, free-floating aquatic plant found across the globe, except in Antarctica.
- Its stems can reach impressive lengths of 1–3 meters (3–10 feet), with numerous side shoots creating a bushy appearance.
- The leaves grow in whorls of six to twelve, each leaf measuring 8–40 mm long. These leaves are stiff, brittle, and sometimes forked into thread-like segments with spiny teeth.
- The plant is monoecious, meaning it produces separate male and female flowers on the same individual.
- Tiny flowers (only 2 mm long) with greenish-brown petals emerge from the leaf axils.
- The fruit is a small nut, usually with three spines (two basal and one apical), measuring 4–5 mm long.
- Ceratophyllum demersum can also form turions, which are winter buds that sink to the bottom of water bodies and give rise to new plants in spring.
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Distribution and Habitat:
- This aquatic plant thrives in lakes, ponds, and quiet streams with summer water temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C.
- In North America, it occurs throughout the US and Canada (except Newfoundland).
- Remarkably, it has been reported as far north as 66 degrees latitude in Norway.
- Other occurrences include China, Siberia, Burkina Faso, Vietnam, and New Zealand (where it’s considered an introduced harmful weed).
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Invasive Status:
- Hornwort is classified as a weed in Tasmania, Australia, and as an unwanted organism in New Zealand.
- Its dense growth can outcompete other underwater vegetation, potentially leading to a loss of biodiversity.
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Aquarium Enthusiasts:
- Ceratophyllum demersum is a popular aquarium plant due to its hardiness and ability to consume excess nutrients from the water.
- It provides shelter for fish and shrimp while maintaining water quality.
Remember, this aquatic wonder not only graces our natural water bodies but also finds a cozy spot in aquariums worldwide!
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