186 GOLDFISH VARIETIES AND 
HERPESTIS 
Herpestis amplevicaulis bears a general resemblance to Moneywort, 
but in essential characteristics is quite different. It is a pure aquatic with 
thick leaves and a stout stem. Native to the ponds of Southeastern 
United States as far as Florida. It is one of the best of recent additions 
to aquarium plants. On account of being a slow grower its introduction 
is not likely to be rapid, but once established it does very well, holding its 
bright green leaves a long time. When out of the water it has a pleasant 
faint odor. Being of Southern origin it will prosper in the temperature of 
tropical aquaria where some plants will not do so well, although it thrives 
in cool water also. Incorrectly known as Bacopa. 
CALLITRICHE 
Floating in small, cool streams throughout the United States and 
Lower Canada one will find patches of brilliant, light-green small leaves. 
Examination will show them to be the floating leaves of a long-stemmed 
plant growing in the mud. These are various forms of Callitriche, or 
Spring Starwort, sometimes also called Water Fennel. When the plant is 
loosened we find it disappointing, for the lower leaves are thinner and 
quite different in appearance. The stems are tangled and difficult to 
disengage. 
Callitriche verna is the commonest form, as well as the most easily 
established in the aquarium, but it shows to best advantage in shallow 
tanks where a top view can be had of the surface leaves. It should, how- 
ever, only be kept with tropical fishes unless it is intentionally given to 
goldfishes to eat, as they are fond of it. The stems and roots when taken 
are usually swarming with various aquatic insects and crustacea. 
Although many of these are good fishfood it is best to thoroughly rinse 
this and all other plants before placing in the aquarium. 
HIPPURIS 
Formerly used as an aquarium plant, Mare’s Tail has been over- 
looked of recent years, possibly on account of its tendency to stand above 
the water. Used in a suitable way this feature could be utilized to 
advantage. It transplants well and will thrive under varying conditions, 
but does best in ample light. Occurs in swamps from Labrador to 
Maine and also the Pacific Coast. 
MONEYWORT 
Lysmachia nummualaria or Moneywort is also known as Wandering 
Jew, Creeping Jenny and Herb-twopence, the latter name and Moneywort 
no doubt being derived from the rounded shape of the leaves. It is com- 
