Animal-World > Freshwater Fish > Aquarium Plants > Ferns and Mosses > Water Sprite

Water Sprite or Oriental Water Fern

• Puzzles
• Postcards

Water Sprite or Oriental Water Fern Ceratopteris thalictroides Photo © Animal-World

   The Water Sprite is a beautiful fern that will grow great in well-fertilized aquariums and produce beautiful green leaves!

   The Water Sprite can be a beautiful and fulfilling addition to an aquarium if it is given proper care. It grows to a maximum height of 20 inches (50 cm) at a rapid rate. Water Sprite goes best as a mid ground or background plant.

   The bottom substrate for this aquarium plant should be nutrient-rich. It should not be planted too deeply in the substrate and make sure that the top of the roots are visible above the gravel. Propagation of the Water Sprite is done by adventitious plantlets that grow off the leaf margins.

   The water conditions should be regularly checked to help the Water Sprite thrive. It needs a pH between 5 and 7.5, with more acidic water being better. Moderate to bright lights will also help keep it growing and looking healthy. Make sure to perform regular water changes and fertilize regularly after each change.

For more Information on keeping a planted aquarium see:
About Planted Aquariums, Adding Aquatic Plants For a Healthy Aquarium

Water conditions / lighting:
   Temperature: 72-86° F (22-30° C)
   pH: 5 - 7.5
   dCH: 5 - 15

Lighting:
   Light level: Moderate to Bright - 50 watts per 25 gallons

Propagation:
   Water Sprites propagate by adventitious plantlets that grow on the leaf margins.

Availability:
   The Water Sprite is readily available.

Add your comment here!

Back to Ferns and Mosses

Author: Jasmine Brough