SafePlants

Ceratophyllum echinatum: Spineless Hornwort

Ceratophyllum echinatum, commonly known as spineless hornwort, is an aquatic perennial plant. It's a member of the genus Ceratophyllum and is often found in ponds and lakes.

Considerations for Pets

• This plant grows submerged in water, typically without roots, making it accessible to aquatic pets in ponds and aquariums.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Ceratophyllum echinatum A. Gray
• Common Name: Spineless Hornwort
• Family: Ceratophyllaceae (Hornwort family)
• Genus: Ceratophyllum L.
• Synonyms: Ceratophyllum demersum var. echinatum (Gray), Ceratophyllum submersum var. echinatum
• Taxonomic Rank: Species

Distribution and Habitat

• Spineless hornwort is found only in North America.
• Populations exist in the Pacific Northwest, disjunct from its main range in the Eastern part of the continent.
• It typically inhabits lakes.
• It has been found in Garrett Co., Maryland.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• It is a fully aquatic plant, growing submerged and usually without roots.

Ecological Role

• It is listed as a rare species in some states, such as Maryland.
• It can be found alongside other rare aquatic plants, such as pondweed.

Additional Information

• It is used as an aquarium plant, sometimes marketed as tropical hornwort.

Further Resources

• Discover Life: Provides information about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution.
• Go Botany: Information on Ceratophyllum echinatum.