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Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | fast |
| Temperature Tolerance | 10°C / 50.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Temperature | 20°C / 68.00°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 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
Helanthium bolivianum "Angustifolius," formerly known as Echinodorus angustifolius, is believed to originate from the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso. It is classified as a smaller sword plant that produces runners within its own genus (Helanthium) separate from Echinodorus. The plant showcases light green, band-like submerged leaves that can grow up to 60 cm in length, resembling Vallisneria nana.
Aquarium Suitability
This plant is considered suitable for aquariums due to its ease of care and adaptability. It can thrive in tanks with various light intensities and does not necessarily require CO2 fertilization, although it benefits from it. It serves well in tanks with less intensive light and no CO2 fertilization, where it grows at a slower pace.
Demands and Hardiness
Helanthium bolivianum "Angustifolius" is an undemanding plant but requires adequate trace elements to maintain its optimal condition. An iron deficiency can result in pale colors, which can be remedied by adding micronutrient fertilizers to the substrate or via the water column. Enhanced growth can be achieved with strong light and CO2 fertilization, but these are not mandatory for its cultivation.
Aquascaping & Usage
This plant is ideal for the middle and background sections of an aquarium, as well as the sides. It is not suitable for creating lawn-like structures in the foreground. With its resemblance to Vallisneria species, it serves as a great alternative in aquascaping layouts. When grown emersed, the plant stays smaller and more akin to other forms of the Helanthium bolivianum group.
Propagation
Propagation of Helanthium bolivianum "Angustifolius" occurs through runners. Once established in the tank, it can spread invasively and must be carefully controlled to prevent overgrowth. Young plants can emerge rapidly, with heights of about 20 cm.
Habitat and Distribution
The species is known to be triploid and is found in Europe since the 1960s, while it is relatively new to the hobby in the USA. It thrives in submerged conditions with ideal temperatures ranging from 20-26°C and is not suitable for outdoor use in colder climates.