Stoneworts

The Stoneworts are the more highly evolved members of the algal family, resembling very much the higher plants. Although being very similar in structure, and having branchlets, these large cell algaes lack vascular connections as would be found in the higher plants.

Chara is a prime example of this group, mostly found in hard waters, and able to grow at deeper levels than many of the vascular plants. It can easily grow unnoticed within the pond. It often collects a coating of lime, and exudes the smell of sulphuretted hydrogen. It's affinity for lime has resulted in the name of stonewort. It may be considered a good pond plant, not too invasive, with a low growing character in most situations.

 

 

Nitella is different from Chara in that it has smooth, forked
branchlets, and lacks both the lime affinity, and "garlicky" smell.
It has the ability to grow in deeper waters than vascular plants, and specimens have been obtained from depths of up to 10 meters. It also may be judged a desirable pond plant. .