Description
Echinodorus amazonicus (Amazon Sword)
Overview
Echinodorus amazonicus, commonly known as the Amazon Sword, is a rosette-forming aquatic plant native to South America, particularly the Amazon River basin. It is one of the most recognized aquarium plants due to its vibrant green, sword-shaped leaves and relatively easy care. It serves as a background or midground plant, growing tall and providing excellent cover for fish. Its versatility makes it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists.
- Scientific Name: Echinodorus amazonicus
- Family: Alismataceae
- Height: 30–50 cm in aquariums
- Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
- Placement: Midground or background
- Lifespan: Perennial with proper care
Care Requirements
Lighting: Moderate to high (50–100 µmol PAR for LED systems). Low light slows growth and may cause smaller leaves.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 22–28°C
- pH: 6.5–7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (3–8 dGH)
Substrate: Nutrient-rich substrate (e.g., aquarium soil, laterite, or enriched gravel) is ideal. Sand or fine gravel with root tabs can also work.
Nutrients: Requires iron, potassium, and trace elements. Liquid fertilizers and root tabs enhance growth.
CO2: Not required but beneficial for faster growth (10–20 ppm recommended).
Tank Requirements: Minimum 40 litres; larger tanks (80+litres) are better for full growth.
Planting and Propagation
Planting:
- Plant the roots in the substrate, leaving the crown (where leaves emerge) above the surface to prevent rot.
- Space plants 10-15cm apart to allow for rosette spread.
- Use a substrate at least 3-5cm deep to anchor roots securely.
Propagation:
- Runners: Amazon Swords produce adventitious plantlets on runners (long stems). Once plantlets develop roots and leaves, they can be cut and replanted.
- Division: Mature plants can be divided by separating the root system into smaller sections, each with leaves and roots.
- Seeds: Less common in aquariums; requires emersed growth and pollination.
Maintenance
- Trimming: Remove yellowing or damaged leaves at the base to encourage new growth. Avoid cutting healthy leaves.
- Fertilization: Add root tabs every 3–6 months and dose liquid fertilizers weekly per manufacturer instructions.
- Cleaning: Gently rinse leaves during water changes to remove algae or debris.
- Water Changes: Perform 20–30% water changes weekly to maintain nutrient balance and water quality.
- Monitoring: Check for nutrient deficiencies (yellowing leaves may indicate iron deficiency; slow growth may suggest insufficient light or CO2).
Challenges and Tips
Challenges:
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Yellowing or pale leaves often indicate a lack of iron or other nutrients. Supplement with iron-rich fertilizers or root tabs.
- Algae Growth: Excessive light or nutrient imbalances can lead to algae on leaves. Reduce light duration or adjust fertilization.
- Melting: New plants may lose leaves during acclimation. This is normal; maintain stable conditions to encourage regrowth.
- Root Rot: Overly compacted substrate or burying the crown can cause rot. Ensure proper planting depth.
Tips:
- Use a nutrient-rich substrate or supplement with root tabs for optimal growth.
- Provide moderate water flow to prevent debris buildup on leaves.
- Pair with fish like tetras or corydoras that won’t damage the plant.
- If leaves grow too tall, trim older outer leaves to maintain aesthetics.
- For low-tech tanks, use low light and supplement with root tabs to avoid CO2 injection.
Recommendation
- Tank Setup: Ideal for community tanks with peaceful fish. Avoid herbivorous species like silver dollars that may eat the leaves.
- Companions: Pair with other plants like Anubias, Java Fern, or Cryptocoryne for a diverse aquascape.
- Lighting Schedule: 8–10 hours of light daily to balance growth and prevent algae.
- Beginner-Friendly: Its hardiness makes it suitable for beginners, but optimal growth requires attention to nutrients and lighting.
- Aquascaping: Use as a focal point in the background or midground to create a natural, lush appearance.
