Ceratopteris thalictroides (Fine Leaf Indian Fern) – 2 Plantlets ≥5cm

Description

Ceratopteris thalictroides (Fine Leaf Indian Fern) – 2 Plantlets ≥5cm

A fast-growing, fine-leaved aquatic fern supplied as two young plantlets at least 5cm tall, ideal for background planting, floating cover, shrimp tanks and fry shelter.

Quick Facts

  • Scientific name: Ceratopteris thalictroides
  • Common names: Fine Leaf Indian Fern / Water Sprite Fine / Oriental Water Fern
  • Selling form: 2 plantlets, each at least 5cm tall
  • Plant type: Aquatic fern
  • Placement: Midground to background, or floating
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Lighting: Low to Medium
  • CO₂: Not required; beneficial
  • Growth rate: Fast
  • Temperature: Approx. 18–30°C

Is this for you?

✔️ Perfect if:

  • You want a forgiving, fast-growing plant for a low-tech aquarium.
  • You want fine, lace-like foliage that contrasts strongly with broader plants.
  • You need cover for shrimp, fry or shy fish.
  • You want a plant that can be grown planted or floating.

❌ Avoid if:

  • You want a slow-growing plant needing almost no maintenance.
  • You have very limited room for a plant that can expand quickly.

Why choose Fine Leaf Indian Fern?

Ceratopteris thalictroides is one of the most adaptable aquarium ferns. Its finely divided bright-green fronds create a soft, airy look and it can be used either rooted in the substrate or floated at the surface.

Benefits

  • Easy and beginner friendly
  • Fast nutrient uptake and rapid growth
  • Excellent shelter for shrimp and fry
  • Works planted or floating
  • Produces plantlets on older leaves under good conditions

NTA Plant Rating

  • Beginner friendly: ★★★★★
  • Low-tech suitability: ★★★★★
  • Fry/shrimp cover: ★★★★★
  • Growth speed: ★★★★★
  • Nano aquarium suitability: ★★★☆☆

Care made simple

  • Light: Low to Medium; brighter light generally gives denser growth.
  • CO₂: Not essential, though supplementation can accelerate growth.
  • Nutrition: Regular water-column fertilisation is beneficial.
  • Planting: Plant gently without burying the crown, or allow the plantlets to float.
  • Maintenance: Thin excess growth and remove tired older fronds when required.

Pairs perfectly with

  • Shrimp aquariums
  • Livebearer fry tanks
  • Bettas and gouramis
  • Low-tech planted aquariums
  • Broad-leaved Cryptocoryne, Anubias and Bucephalandra
NTA Insight:
Because this listing is supplied as two young plantlets, give each plant a little space rather than planting them tightly together. They can expand quickly once established and are especially effective when one is planted and the other floated.

Live Plant Shipping Information

🌿 Live Plant Notice

This listing is for two live plantlets, each at least 5cm tall. Leaf count, exact height and frond shape vary naturally with maturity and current growing conditions.

  • Shipping: Available where aquatic plant shipping is permitted.
  • Local Pickup: Available by appointment when in stock.
  • On arrival: Rinse, inspect and plant or float promptly.

FAQ

Is this different from Coarse Water Sprite?

Yes. This is the fine-leaved Ceratopteris thalictroides form, while Coarse Water Sprite is typically sold as Ceratopteris cornuta.

How much do I receive?

Two live plantlets, each at least 5cm tall.

Can I float it?

Yes. It grows well floating or planted into the substrate.

Does it need CO₂?

No. CO₂ is optional rather than essential.

Will every plant look identical?

No. Live plants naturally vary in frond size, leaf shape and density according to age and growing conditions.

Ceratopteris thalictroides (Fine Leaf Indian Fern) – 2 Plantlets ≥5cm

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5 in stock  

$11.95


All prices include GST
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    Description

    Ceratopteris thalictroides (Fine Leaf Indian Fern) – 2 Plantlets ≥5cm

    A fast-growing, fine-leaved aquatic fern supplied as two young plantlets at least 5cm tall, ideal for background planting, floating cover, shrimp tanks and fry shelter.

    Quick Facts

    • Scientific name: Ceratopteris thalictroides
    • Common names: Fine Leaf Indian Fern / Water Sprite Fine / Oriental Water Fern
    • Selling form: 2 plantlets, each at least 5cm tall
    • Plant type: Aquatic fern
    • Placement: Midground to background, or floating
    • Difficulty: Easy
    • Lighting: Low to Medium
    • CO₂: Not required; beneficial
    • Growth rate: Fast
    • Temperature: Approx. 18–30°C

    Is this for you?

    ✔️ Perfect if:

    • You want a forgiving, fast-growing plant for a low-tech aquarium.
    • You want fine, lace-like foliage that contrasts strongly with broader plants.
    • You need cover for shrimp, fry or shy fish.
    • You want a plant that can be grown planted or floating.

    ❌ Avoid if:

    • You want a slow-growing plant needing almost no maintenance.
    • You have very limited room for a plant that can expand quickly.

    Why choose Fine Leaf Indian Fern?

    Ceratopteris thalictroides is one of the most adaptable aquarium ferns. Its finely divided bright-green fronds create a soft, airy look and it can be used either rooted in the substrate or floated at the surface.

    Benefits

    • Easy and beginner friendly
    • Fast nutrient uptake and rapid growth
    • Excellent shelter for shrimp and fry
    • Works planted or floating
    • Produces plantlets on older leaves under good conditions

    NTA Plant Rating

    • Beginner friendly: ★★★★★
    • Low-tech suitability: ★★★★★
    • Fry/shrimp cover: ★★★★★
    • Growth speed: ★★★★★
    • Nano aquarium suitability: ★★★☆☆

    Care made simple

    • Light: Low to Medium; brighter light generally gives denser growth.
    • CO₂: Not essential, though supplementation can accelerate growth.
    • Nutrition: Regular water-column fertilisation is beneficial.
    • Planting: Plant gently without burying the crown, or allow the plantlets to float.
    • Maintenance: Thin excess growth and remove tired older fronds when required.

    Pairs perfectly with

    • Shrimp aquariums
    • Livebearer fry tanks
    • Bettas and gouramis
    • Low-tech planted aquariums
    • Broad-leaved Cryptocoryne, Anubias and Bucephalandra
    NTA Insight:
    Because this listing is supplied as two young plantlets, give each plant a little space rather than planting them tightly together. They can expand quickly once established and are especially effective when one is planted and the other floated.

    Live Plant Shipping Information

    🌿 Live Plant Notice

    This listing is for two live plantlets, each at least 5cm tall. Leaf count, exact height and frond shape vary naturally with maturity and current growing conditions.

    • Shipping: Available where aquatic plant shipping is permitted.
    • Local Pickup: Available by appointment when in stock.
    • On arrival: Rinse, inspect and plant or float promptly.

    FAQ

    Is this different from Coarse Water Sprite?

    Yes. This is the fine-leaved Ceratopteris thalictroides form, while Coarse Water Sprite is typically sold as Ceratopteris cornuta.

    How much do I receive?

    Two live plantlets, each at least 5cm tall.

    Can I float it?

    Yes. It grows well floating or planted into the substrate.

    Does it need CO₂?

    No. CO₂ is optional rather than essential.

    Will every plant look identical?

    No. Live plants naturally vary in frond size, leaf shape and density according to age and growing conditions.

    Live Arrival & Ordering FAQ

    Why do livestock prices sometimes change?

    Unlike manufactured products, fish and shrimp continue to grow and develop over time. Their value changes as they increase in size, develop colour, or become breeding pairs.

    Our prices are based on the current size, quality and availability of each specimen. While pricing often remains stable for around 3–4 months, it may be updated at any time to reflect these changes.

    We always aim to offer healthy, high-quality livestock at fair and competitive prices.

    Do you offer a live arrival guarantee?

    Yes. All livestock is covered by our Live Arrival Guarantee.

    In the rare event of DOA, please contact us promptly with clear photos of the livestock in the original unopened bag.

    Please review our full DOA and store policies before purchase.

    Can you ship to all states in Australia?

    No. Due to state restrictions, we cannot ship livestock or live plants to WA and TAS.

    What should I check before ordering?

    Before placing an order, make sure:

    • Your tank is fully cycled and stable
    • Your aquarium has enough space for the species
    • Your current livestock are compatible in temperament, size, and requirements
    • Your water parameters, habitat, and temperature suit the species
    • You are not adding too many fish at once
    What should I expect when my fish arrives?

    It is normal for fish, shrimp, or snails to look pale, stressed, or less active after shipping.

    This is temporary. Most livestock will settle and regain colour within a few days.

    How long does it take for fish to settle in?

    Most livestock will take 3–7 days to fully adjust to their new environment.

    Should I feed my fish immediately after arrival?

    No. We recommend waiting 24 hours before feeding to allow them to settle.

    If you already have fish in your tank, feeding them before introducing new arrivals can help reduce stress.

    Why do fish sometimes struggle after being added to a tank?

    In most cases, issues are caused by tank conditions, not shipping.

    • Uncycled or unstable tanks
    • Poor water parameters
    • Overstocking
    • Unsuitable tank mates
    What is Nano Tanks Australia’s main tip for new livestock?

    Most livestock losses happen in immature or unstable tanks, not during shipping.

    If your setup is not fully established, the risk to new arrivals is significantly higher.

    Not sure if this fish is right for your setup?

    If you are unsure whether this species suits your setup, contact us before ordering and we’ll help point you in the right direction.

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