More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 20°C / 68.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-10 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 20-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Staurogyne repens, previously referred to as Staurogyne spec. or Staurogyne sp. "Rio Cristalino," is a versatile aquatic plant that originates from Rio Cristalino in Mato Grosso, Brazil. Identified by Dr. Dieter C. Wasshausen in 2010, it thrives in fast-flowing rivers on rocks, predominantly above the waterline and in full sun. This plant, often used in aquascaping, forms dense bushy carpets and is known for its solid, hirsute stems in the emersed form, turning mainly green in its submerged state. It is a slow grower that requires moderate lighting, CO2 supplementation, and a nutrient-rich substrate, thriving best in temperatures between 20 to 30°C.
Aquarium Suitability
Staurogyne repens is highly suitable for aquariums, being frequently available commercially and adaptable to various tank sizes. It is well-suited for midground and foreground placement, either as a ground cover in nano tanks or in groups for a bushy appearance. This plant performs exceptionally well in aquascaping setups, especially in Iwagumi-style layouts, where it can complement hardscape elements like rocks and driftwood, creating visually appealing contrasts in texture and color.
Demands and Hardiness
This medium difficulty plant requires medium to high lighting levels, CO2 supplementation ranging from 20-40mg/l, and soft to medium-hard water conditions. It is recommended to keep nitrate levels between 10-50mg/l, phosphate levels within 0.1-3mg/l, and maintain a pH range of 5-7.5. Staurogyne repens is not suitable for outdoor use in colder climates, thriving best within a temperature range of 22-28°C in aquarium settings.
Aquascaping & Usage
Staurogyne repens can be used to create low-growing carpets, dense bushes, or even trimmed into hedge-like structures within the aquarium. It excels in filling gaps between rocks with fresh green carpeting or forming low-growing bushes in the foreground and middle ground. Its ability to nestle into crevices or cascade down from elevated areas mimics the growth pattern of cushion plants in mountainous regions, enhancing the natural aesthetic of the aquascape.
Propagation
Propagation of Staurogyne repens can be achieved through various methods such as runners, cuttings, splitting, and removing daughter plants. By selectively trimming longer stems and encouraging lateral growth, aquarists can promote a carpet-like appearance or cultivate denser bushier formations, allowing for creative manipulation of the plant's growth pattern and overall aesthetic within the aquarium.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat along the Brazilian riverbanks of Rio Cristalino, Staurogyne repens thrives in rocky areas above the waterline, basking in full sun. Its growth habit involves creeping or upright stems that ramify strongly, forming dense bushes or carpets. The plant's adaptability to rocky environments makes it well-suited for emulating natural riverbank landscapes within the aquatic environment, showcasing its full potential in recreating unique aquascaping designs.