Overview
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke is an aquatic plant that belongs to the Ceratophyllaceae family. It is commonly known as the hornwort.
Origin
The hornwort is found all over the world. It is native to Asia, Europe, Africa, North America, and South America. It grows in freshwater ponds, lakes, and streams.
Appearance
The hornwort is a submerged aquatic plant that has stems that are 20-100 cm long. The leaves are whorled and have a needle-like structure that resembles the tines of a fork. The color of the leaves is dark green, and they are about 1 cm long.
Uses
The hornwort is often used in aquariums as it is known to create a natural habitat for fishes and other aquatic creatures. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments including jaundice, anemia, and liver disorders. The leaves are also used for food in some countries.
Light Requirements
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke is a plant species that requires moderate to high light for optimal growth. It can tolerate shade, but increased light intensity promotes the development of leaves, stems, and roots. Therefore, it is essential to place them in a well-lit area to ensure their healthy growth.
Temperature Range
The temperature range suitable for the Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke is between 20 to 28°C. It cannot tolerate extremely low or high temperatures. The plant can survive in colder regions by growing in deep water bodies where the temperature is relatively stable.
Water Quality
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke prefers freshwater with a pH level ranging from 6.5 to 8.5. The water should also have adequate levels of dissolved oxygen and nutrients, including nitrogen and phosphorus. The plant is highly sensitive to water pollution caused by chemicals and heavy metals, so water quality should be continuously monitored for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke does not require soil for growth since it is an aquatic plant that grows fully submerged in water. However, the plant can anchor itself in the mud and sediment of the water body to provide support. Therefore, the soil or mud should be rich in organic matter to ensure the plant receives the necessary nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke, also known as hornwort, is a species of submerged aquatic plants that belong to the Ceratophyllaceae family. This plant species can be grown in various types of water bodies, including ponds, freshwater aquariums and aquascapes. To grow Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum successfully, select a suitable growing location and condition. The plant prefers a high level of light and a temperature range between 18 – 30?C.
Watering Needs
Since it is an aquatic plant, Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum requires a water source for growing. Check to ensure the water used contains a minimal level of dissolved minerals and chemicals harmful to the plant. The plant species requires a minimum of six hours of light per day to grow well. You can supply more light when possible.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, it's essential to fertilize Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum regularly. You can use liquid or substrate fertilization methods, with micro- and macro-nutrients, to support the plant growth. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer that contains a higher percentage of nitrogen. Fertilize the plants once or twice each week, depending on the growth rate, and avoid excessive fertilization that might damage the plant.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum helps to maintain the desired size and shape of the plant. Use scissors or clippers to cut the unhealthy or dead foliage, shoots, or stems. Remember to sterilize the cutting tool before and after use to prevent contamination. Removing the excess parts helps to improve the plant's growth and overall appearance. Pruning and maintenance activities can be done weekly or bi-weekly for better results.
Propagation of Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke, commonly known as Hornwort, is a submerged aquatic plant that is commonly used in aquariums. The plant can be propagated through several methods which include sexual and asexual reproduction.
Sexual propagation
Hornwort produces small flowers which are pollinated by water. The flowers are unisexual and can be male or female. The male flowers have stamens which produce pollen while the female flowers have pistils which receive the pollen. After pollination, the female flowers produce small seeds which can be harvested and used for propagation.
Asexual propagation
Hornwort can also be propagated asexually through the fragmentation of the plant. The plant has the ability to produce lateral shoots which can detach from the parent plant and form new individual plants. To propagate hornwort using this method, individual fragments can be collected and replanted in new locations.
Another asexual propagation method for hornwort is through the use of cuttings. Cuttings of the plant can be taken and replanted in new locations. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and should have at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed to prevent rotting.
In conclusion, Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke can be propagated through sexual and asexual reproduction. Sexual reproduction involves the harvesting of seeds while asexual reproduction involves fragmentation and the use of cuttings.
Disease Management
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke, commonly known as hornwort, is known to be hardy and disease-resistant. However, it can still be susceptible to some fungal and bacterial diseases.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to turn yellow and wilt. If left untreated, it can cause the plant to die. To manage anthracnose, remove any infected leaves and stems and destroy them. Keep the area around the plant clean and dry, and avoid overhead watering.
Pythium Root Rot
Pythium root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot. It is often caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. To manage Pythium root rot, remove the infected plant and any soil around it. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Pest Management
Ceratophyllum demersum L. var. apiculatum (Cham.) Garcke is not typically affected by pests. However, it can be susceptible to some aquatic pests.
Snails and Slugs
Snails and slugs can feed on the leaves of hornwort. To manage snails and slugs, remove any visible pests by hand or using a trap. Copper barriers can also be used to prevent them from reaching the plant.
Fish
Sometimes, the plant can be affected by fish. Some fish may uproot or break the stems of the plant as they swim around the aquarium or pond. To manage fish that can damage the plant, create a barrier around the plant or reduce the number of fish in the aquarium or pond.
