Characeae . . . . Stoneworts - (Algae - not higher plants)

Characeae can be confused with Ceratophyllum (Hornwort), which grows in similar places but has more obvious close-set whorls of branched lvs .
Chara spp. have rough stems with files of cortical cells visible (lens) and often 'stipules' or spines at the base of whorls, while Nitella and Tolypella spp. have smooth semi-translucent stems and no stiples or spines.

Chara sp. . . . . . Stonewort

Scattered in freshwater throught BI, esp. if slightly alkaline

Nitella sp. . . . . . Stonewort

Scattered in freshwater throughout BI, esp. in mt areas