Echinodorus Green Ozelot

Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' Care Guide

Common Name: Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot'
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Family: Alismataceae

General Description:

Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' is a popular aquatic plant known for its distinctive spotted leaves and lush green foliage. It is ideal for both beginner and experienced aquarists due to its hardiness and adaptability.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)
• A tank of this size provides enough space for the plant to thrive and reach its full size.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Moderate to High
• Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' can adapt to a wide range of lighting conditions but prefers moderate to high light. Aim for 2 to 3 watts per gallon or use LED lights with similar intensity.

3. CO2 Requirements:

• CO2: Not necessary but beneficial
• Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' can grow without CO2 supplementation, but injecting CO2 can enhance its growth and overall health. If you choose to add CO2, aim for a level of 10-20 mg/L.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Hardness: 3-12 dKH

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Nutrient-rich
• A nutrient-rich substrate, such as specialized aquarium soil or a substrate enriched with root tabs, is recommended. Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' has robust roots and benefits from a nourishing substrate.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Regular fertilization
• This plant benefits from regular dosing with liquid fertilizers to provide necessary macro and micronutrients. Iron supplementation is particularly useful for maintaining the vibrant leaf coloration.

7. Watering and Maintenance:

• Water Changes: Weekly water changes of 20-30% are recommended to maintain good water quality.
• Pruning: Occasional pruning of older leaves to encourage new growth and prevent overcrowding.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Runners or division
• Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' primarily propagates through runners but can also be propagated by dividing the parent plant. New plants can be separated once they have developed a sufficient root system.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Midground to Background
• Due to its size and spreading foliage, Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' is best placed in the midground to background of the aquarium. Ensure it has enough space to grow without blocking light for smaller plants.

Summary:

Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' is a robust and attractive aquatic plant suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Although it does not require CO2, adding CO2 can promote more vigorous growth and better health. This plant prefers moderate to high light and a nutrient-rich substrate to thrive. With regular maintenance, including weekly water changes and fertilization, Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' can become a lush centerpiece in any aquarium.

By following this care guide, you can enjoy the beauty and ease of growing Echinodorus 'Green Ozelot' in your aquarium.