Echinodorus uruguayensis

Datasheet

General Description

Echinodorus uruguayensis, also known as the Uruguay sword plant, is a highly variable aquatic species cultivated in the hobby for many years under various synonyms and trade names. It features oblong lanceolate-band-shaped leaves that vary in length, width, and color, ranging from medium-bottle green to dark red or even blackish. Native to Southeast South America, this plant typically thrives in cool rivers and rivulets with strong currents and acidic water, where it forms large populations with rhizomes. E. uruguayensis can grow floating leaves with an oval or obovate blade and requires medium light, nutrient-rich substrate, slightly acidic water, CO2 fertilization, and temperatures between 18-24 degrees Celsius for optimal growth.

Aquarium Suitability

Echinodorus uruguayensis is suitable for aquariums and is frequently available commercially. It is an easy-to-care-for plant that can be maintained in tanks with a volume of 300 liters or more. This species is ideal as a background plant in aquarium setups and contrasts well with reddish or bushy plants. The plant does not grow leaves above the waterline in aquarium conditions and benefits from a nutrient-rich substrate, medium light, slightly acidic water, and temperatures between 18-24 degrees Celsius. Water hardness is generally not a significant factor for this species, but reddish and blackish forms may require an adequate supply of micronutrients, especially iron, to maintain their vibrant colors.

Demands and Hardiness

Echinodorus uruguayensis has moderate growth and can reach heights of 30-70 cm and widths of 15-50 cm. It can tolerate temperatures between 16-24 degrees Celsius and has a temperature tolerance range of 4-30 degrees Celsius. The plant is adaptable to somewhat cooler temperatures but should be monitored carefully in colder conditions. In terms of water parameters, E. uruguayensis prefers medium to high light levels, carbon dioxide levels between 10-40 mg/l, a pH range of 5-8, and varying nitrate, phosphate, and potassium concentrations.

Aquascaping & Usage

E. uruguayensis is commonly used in aquascaping as a background plant, adding a striking visual element to aquarium layouts. Its rosette growth form and varying leaf colors make it a versatile choice for creating aesthetic underwater landscapes. The plant's lush appearance and contrasting foliage can enhance the overall design of the tank, especially when combined with other plant species that complement its colors and textures.

Propagation

Propagation of E. uruguayensis is primarily through proliferating inflorescences, rhizome division, splitting, and cutting off daughter plants. By separating and replanting the plantlets that develop on the flower stalks or rhizomes, aquarists can easily propagate and expand their E. uruguayensis population within the aquarium. Under favorable conditions, these plantlets develop into robust plants within a few months, contributing to the overall greenery and visual appeal of the aquatic setup.

Habitat and Distribution

Indigenous to Southern Brazil, Southern Paraguay, Uruguay, and Northeastern Argentina, Echinodorus uruguayensis thrives in aquatic habitats such as cool rivers and rivulets with acidic water and strong currents. In its natural environment, E. uruguayensis grows submerged and forms extensive populations that cover the substrate with interconnected rhizomes. The plant occasionally produces long-stemmed floating leaves with oval or obovate blades. Its adaptability to varying water conditions and its capacity for prolific growth make E. uruguayensis a notable species within its native range and in aquarium cultivation worldwide.