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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | yes |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | medium |
| Temperature Tolerance | 15°C / 59.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-8 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 subalatus, belonging to the Alismataceae family, is a plant species widely distributed throughout tropical America, from Mexico to northern Argentina. It exhibits variability across its range, with some varieties possibly classified as subspecies or distinct species. The plant features narrow-elliptic to narrow-ovate leaves, pointed tips, and distinctive longitudinal ridges on the leaf stalks when grown emersed. Its flowers have 12 pale yellow stamina and narrow petals. In its natural habitat, E. subalatus is found in bogs, riverbanks, lakeshores, temporary ponds, and flood plains, often submerged during the rainy season.
Aquarium Suitability
Echinodorus subalatus is considered suitable for aquariums, although it is not widely known as an aquarium plant. It may be confused with other Echinodorus species like E. palaefolius or "Echinodorus argentinensis." The plant is categorized as easy in terms of difficulty, making it suitable for beginners. It can be utilized as a semi-emersed plant in open tanks, typically placed in the background.
Demands and Hardiness
E. subalatus thrives in water temperature ranges of 23-28°C, with a tolerance range of 15-30°C. It requires medium to high light levels and prefers a pH range between 5-8. The plant's growth benefits from carbon dioxide levels of 10-40mg/l and nitrate concentrations of 10-50mg/l. It has a moderate growth rate and thrives in conditions with low to medium carbonate hardness.
Aquascaping & Usage
In aquariums, Echinodorus subalatus can be utilized for creating lush backgrounds due to its rosette growth habit and moderate size, reaching heights of 30-50cm and widths of 15-30cm. Its semi-emersed nature adds a natural aesthetic to open tanks, contributing to a visually appealing aquatic landscape.
Propagation
Propagation of E. subalatus can be achieved through proliferating inflorescences, rhizome division, seed propagation, splitting, and cutting off daughter plants. These methods allow for the expansion of the plant within an aquarium setting, aiding in the maintenance of a healthy and vibrant aquatic environment.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitat of Echinodorus subalatus includes environments such as bogs, riverbanks, lakeshores, temporary ponds, and flood plains in tropical regions of America. Its distribution spans from Mexico to northern Argentina, where it is often found completely submerged during the rainy season. The plant's adaptability to various aquatic habitats contributes to its widespread presence in the region.