Water Sprite [Water Fern, Indian Fern]

🌿 Water Sprite (Ceratopteris thalictroides)

The Water Sprite, also known as Indian Fern or Water Fern, is a highly versatile and fast-growing aquatic plant. Its finely divided, bright green leaves bring a soft, natural texture to any freshwater aquarium, making it a favorite among aquarists for both aesthetics and functionality.

🔍 Key Features

• Versatile Growth Options: Can be planted in substrate or left floating at the water’s surface.

• Fast Growth: Quickly spreads and helps absorb excess nutrients, improving water quality.

• Low Maintenance: Easy to care for without the need for CO₂ injection.

• Natural Shelter: Provides cover and hiding places for fish, shrimp, and fry.

• Aesthetic Enhancement: Adds vibrant greenery and delicate movement to the aquascape.

📐 Specifications

• Scientific Name: Ceratopteris thalictroides

• Common Names: Water Sprite, Indian Fern, Water Fern

• Care Level: Easy

• Lighting Requirement: Low to Moderate

• CO₂ Requirement: Not required

• Growth Rate: Fast

• Placement: Midground to Background or Floating

• Maximum Height: 12+ inches (30+ cm)

• Water Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5

🌱 Planting & Care Tips

• Planting: Plant into a fine-grained substrate or allow to float freely.

• Lighting: Provide low to moderate lighting to maintain steady, healthy growth.

• Nutrient Support: Supplement with liquid fertilizers if needed for richer foliage.

• Maintenance: Regular trimming is recommended to prevent overgrowth and maintain desired size.

• Propagation: Produces plantlets along its leaves that can easily be separated and replanted.

💡 Aquascaping Inspiration

The Water Sprite adds lush greenery and softness to aquascapes. Use it as a background plant for tall, flowing coverage, or float it to create natural shading and layered depth in community tanks.