Echinodorus Red Ocelot

Echinodorus 'Red Ocelot' Care Guide

Common Name: Echinodorus 'Red Ocelot'
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Family: Alismataceae

General Description:

Echinodorus 'Red Ocelot' is a stunning and colorful sword plant known for its bold red to reddish-brown leaves covered with dark spots, resembling the pattern of an ocelot. It brings dramatic contrast and vibrant color to aquascapes. As a rosette-type plant, it grows relatively large, making it a fantastic centerpiece or background highlight in medium to large aquariums.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons (75 liters)

• Best suited for spacious tanks due to its size and spread.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Moderate to High

• Strong lighting enhances the intense red coloration and spot patterns.

3. CO₂ Requirements:

• CO₂: Recommended but not required

• Will thrive without CO₂, but supplemental CO₂ helps maintain vivid colors and promote faster, healthier growth.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.5–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Nutrient-rich substrate recommended

• A fertile substrate is essential for best growth and color development.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Moderate to High

• Regular use of root tabs and liquid fertilizers ensures lush growth and vibrant colors.

7. Maintenance:

• Growth Rate: Moderate

• Remove older, damaged leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and encourage new growth.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Adventitious plantlets or rhizome division

• Produces plantlets on flowering stalks under optimal conditions.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Midground to Background

• Perfect for creating a focal point with its striking color.

Summary:

Echinodorus 'Red Ocelot' is a breathtaking and relatively easy-to-care-for plant that adds a bold splash of color to freshwater aquariums. While it benefits from good lighting and nutrient-rich conditions, it remains adaptable and rewarding, making it a favorite among aquascapers looking to create dramatic, eye-catching layouts.