Echinodorus Frans Stoffels

Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' Care Guide

Common Name: Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels'
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Family: Alismataceae

General Description:

Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' is a striking hybrid of the Echinodorus genus, known for its broad, reddish-green leaves that provide a bold focal point in any aquarium. This plant is relatively easy to care for and is suitable for both beginners and more experienced aquarists.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' can grow quite large, so it is best suited for medium to large aquariums.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Moderate to High
• This plant prefers moderate to high lighting to thrive and maintain its vibrant coloration. Aim for 2 to 4 watts per gallon or equivalent LED lighting.

3. CO2 Requirements:

• CO2: Not necessary but beneficial
• While not strictly necessary, CO2 supplementation can enhance growth and coloration, especially in higher light setups.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Nutrient-rich
• Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate. Using an aquarium soil or adding root tabs can support robust growth.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Moderate to High
• Regular fertilization is recommended. Use a comprehensive liquid fertilizer and root tabs to ensure the plant receives essential nutrients.

7. Watering and Maintenance:

• Water Changes: Weekly water changes of 20-30% help maintain water quality.
• Pruning: Prune old or damaged leaves regularly to encourage new growth and maintain the plant's appearance.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Runners or Adventitious Plantlets
• Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' propagates by producing runners or adventitious plantlets. These can be separated from the parent plant and replanted.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Midground to Background
• Due to its size and growth pattern, Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' is best placed in the midground to background of the aquarium.

Summary:

Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' is an attractive and easy-to-moderate care aquatic plant that can add a striking element to your aquarium. It thrives under moderate to high lighting and benefits from nutrient-rich substrate and regular fertilization. With proper care, this plant can become a stunning centerpiece in your aquarium setup.

By following this care guide, you can enjoy the beauty and vibrant presence of Echinodorus 'Frans Stoffels' in your aquarium.