Filamentous green algae can outcompete submerged plants for nutrients, affecting their growth. In a study, researchers found that the algae Cladophora oligoclona absorbs more nitrogen than Vallisneria natans and Ceratophyllum demersum. Ceratophyllum demersum has a higher affinity for phosphate. When grown together, Ceratophyllum demersum outcompetes Vallisneria natans. This suggests that Ceratophyllum demersum could help restore submerged vegetation in nutrient-rich lakes.