Echinodorus americanus

Echinodorus americanus Care Guide

Common Name: American Sword
Difficulty Level: Easy
Family: Alismataceae

General Description:

Echinodorus americanus, commonly known as the American Sword, is a hardy, rosette-type aquatic plant native to North America. It has long, lance-shaped green leaves that provide excellent coverage and shelter for fish and invertebrates. This plant is well-suited for beginners due to its adaptability and low maintenance requirements. It thrives in a variety of water conditions and can be grown fully submerged (aquatic) or partially submerged (emersed).

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Due to its large size, a medium to large aquarium is recommended to accommodate its growth.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Low to Moderate
• American Sword can thrive in low-light conditions but grows more robustly under moderate lighting.

3. CO2 Requirements:

• CO2: Not required
• CO2 supplementation is not necessary, but it may promote faster and healthier growth.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 18-28°C (64-82°F)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Hardness: Soft to hard water (adaptable)

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Nutrient-rich
• Echinodorus species are heavy root feeders, so a nutrient-rich substrate (such as aquasoil or a sand/gravel mix with root tabs) will enhance their growth.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Moderate to High
• Although this plant can grow in basic substrates, supplementing with root tabs or liquid fertilizers rich in iron will improve leaf coloration and overall health.

7. Maintenance:

• Water Changes: Perform regular water changes of 20-30% weekly to maintain water quality.
• Pruning: Trim dead or damaged leaves periodically to encourage new growth.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Runners or adventitious plantlets
• This plant reproduces by sending out runners that develop baby plants, which can be separated and replanted once they develop strong roots.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Background
• Due to its size, it is best suited for the background of the aquarium, where it can provide a natural backdrop and shelter for fish.

Summary:

Echinodorus americanus is a resilient and low-maintenance aquatic plant, making it ideal for beginners and experienced aquarists alike. It thrives in low to moderate lighting, does not require CO2, and benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate. With proper care, it will develop into a large, beautiful background plant that enhances the aesthetics and biodiversity of any freshwater aquarium.

By following this care guide, you can enjoy the lush and hardy growth of the American Sword in your tank.