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floating antlerfern

Scientific Name: Ceratopteris pteridoides

Family: Parkeriaceae

Category: Fern

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual, Perennial

Other Names:

       

Ceratopteris pteridoides: Floating Antler Fern

Ceratopteris pteridoides, commonly known as Floating Antler Fern, is a fascinating aquatic fern prized for its unique appearance and ease of care.

Considerations for Pets

  • This plant is often found floating freely.

Considerations for Children

  • This plant is often found floating freely.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Ceratopteris pteridoides (Hook.) Hieron.
  • Family: Parkeriaceae (mentioned as related to Antler Fern) and Water Fern Family.
  • Life: Plantae
  • Synonyms:
    • Ceratopteris lockhartii (Hook. & Grev.) Kze.
    • Ceratopteris parkeri J. Sm.
    • Perkeria pteridoides Hooker 1825
    • Parkeria pteridoides

Common Names

  • Floating Antler Fern
  • Floating Fern
  • Water Horn Fern
  • Pakung-sungay (Philippines - literally 'antler fern' or 'horn fern')

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to Central America, South America, and southern North America (including Florida and Louisiana), as well as the Orient.
  • Found in bogs and muddy ground.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • A floating plant with large leaves and a distinctive appearance.
  • Described as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
  • Fronds can be sterile on floating plants.
  • Roots are loosely rooted in the mud or floating.

Ecological Role

  • Persistent floating mats can potentially degrade water quality.
  • Can be invasive in some environments.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Sometimes massed on or around logs or other floating vegetation.

Resources and Further Information

  • Dave's Garden (for tips and ideas).
  • Encyclopedia of Life.
  • United States Department of Agriculture.