More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 24°C / 75.20°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-21 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7 ph |
| Light | medium-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 10-40mg/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
Echinodorus decumbens, discovered in 1994 by Christel Kasselmann in eastern Brazil, is a low-lying sword plant with lanceolate leaves that can grow over 50 cm long. Its emersed form features decumbent flower stalks and narrow, lineal-band-shaped leaf blades.
Aquarium Suitability
Suited for aquariums with good lighting and nutrient-rich substrate, E. decumbens thrives in temperatures of at least 25°C, making it ideal for tanks like those housing discus fish. While best in high tanks due to its potential height of up to 75 cm, young plants can be used in smaller setups initially.
Demands and Hardiness
E. decumbens is an easy-to-grow plant that requires temperatures between 24-28°C and medium to high light. It can adapt to moderately hard, slightly alkaline water and has a temperature tolerance range of 18-30°C. The plant's submersed leaves may sprout emersed leaves, but they return to submersed form when managed properly.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquascaping, E. decumbens adds an informal, natural look with its narrow, long-stalked leaves. Placed in the midground or background of large tanks, it allows for a clear view of the background and pairs well with small-leaved stem plants. Its resemblance to reeds can enhance the aesthetic of a Nature Aquarium layout.
Propagation
E. decumbens reproduces readily under greenhouse conditions through adventitious plants on its flower stalks. Strong submersed plants may also produce flower stalks, but these will display an upright growth habit different from the decumbent stalks of emersed plants.
Habitat and Distribution
Endemic to eastern Brazil, specifically in Rio Surubim, Piauí, E. decumbens grows on riverbanks and inundation zones. It prefers hot climates and soft, slightly acidic water in its natural habitat but can adapt to different water conditions when cultivated in aquariums.