Origin
Echinodorus humilis (Rich.) Buchenau, also known as Helanthium tenellum, is a wetland plant native to South America, specifically Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil.
Common Names
Common names for Echinodorus humilis include Small Amazon Sword, Tenellus, Pygmy Chain Sword, and Dwarf Chain Sword.
Uses
Echinodorus humilis is a popular choice for planted aquariums due to its small size and attractive appearance. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of water conditions and is easy to care for, making it suitable for beginners. Its dense growth pattern can also provide shelter and hiding places for aquarium fish and invertebrates.
General Appearance
Echinodorus humilis has narrow, grass-like leaves that can grow up to 10 cm in length but generally stay shorter in aquariums. The leaves emerge from a central rosette and form a dense carpet that covers the substrate. The plant produces runners that spread quickly, allowing it to multiply and fill in large areas over time. Its emerald green coloration contrasts well with darker substrates and other aquatic plants.
Light Requirements
Echinodorus humilis requires moderate to bright light to grow well. It can handle direct sunlight if it is acclimatized slowly. Too much shade may slow down its growth and can cause the plant to elongate.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, but the ideal temperature is between 20 and 28°C. Temperatures below 18°C and above 35°C may have adverse effects on the plant. It is crucial to maintain stable temperatures to ensure its growth.
Soil Requirements
This plant prefers nutrient-rich soil that is well-aerated to allow for proper root growth. A substrate that is heavy in clay may not be ideal as it can cause the roots to rot. Adding organic matter can help in creating a well-draining soil, which is essential for its growth. Fertilization can also help provide the plant with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
Echinodorus humilis is a freshwater plant that is native to South America. It is essential to cultivate this plant in an aquarium or a pond. To start with, you need to choose the right container or pot with high-quality substrate and ensure it has enough light. You can either use natural sunlight or artificial lighting, but the lighting should be moderate.
Planting this species is easy, but it is crucial to keep them away from other aquatic plants as this species can overshadow other plants and hinder their growth. Generally, it is best to plant Echinodorus humilis in the foreground or mid-ground of your aquarium or pond.
Watering Needs
Echinodorus humilis is known for requiring specific water conditions to thrive. The optimal pH level for its growth should be between 6.5 and 7.5, and the temperature of the water should be maintained at 22?- 28?. Ensure to use high-quality dechlorinated water during changes and avoid overfeeding your fish to prevent pollutants that could affect the plant's growth.
Fertilization
Fertilizing your Echinodorus humilis is crucial for its proper growth. Always use high-quality fertilizers that should not exceed the recommended amount. The best types of fertilizers to use for these plants are rich in iron as they aid in chlorophyll production, aiding in plant growth. It is also important to avoid adding fertilizers directly to the substrate as it can result in root burn, which can damage or kill your plant.
Pruning
Echinodorus humilis does not require regular pruning, but occasional re-shaping is recommended to promote bushier and healthier growth. As the lower leaves turn yellow, you can trim them to improve appearance and increase light and nutrients flow to the rest of the plant. Always ensure to use sharp sterilized scissors or pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant's overall structure.
Propagation Methods of Echinodorus Humilis (Rich.) Buchenau
Echinodorus humilis (Rich.) Buchenau, commonly known as the Amazon sword plant or the low-growing sword plant, is a popular aquarium plant. Propagating the Amazon sword plant is quite easy and can be done via various methods that include: division, planting runners, or growing new plants from seeds.
Division
Division is the easiest method of propagation, especially when the plant has multiple crowns. To divide Echinodorus humilis, follow the steps below:
- Remove the plant from the substrate.
- Detangle the roots gently.
- Identify sections with separate crowns and separate them by pulling them apart.
- Replant each new plant in the substrate before watering.
Planting Runners
Another way to propagate Echinodorus humilis is to plant runners. To propagate via runners, follow the steps below:
- Locate a mature Amazon sword plant with runners.
- Using scissors, cut the runners while leaving them attached to the mother plant.
- Plant the runners into the substrate, 1-2 inches deep.
- Wait for the runners to grow new roots before separating them from the parent plant.
Growing From Seeds
Propagation by seed is the least common method used to propagate Amazon sword plants and could take a long time to cultivate into mature plants. The process of growing Echinodorus humilis from seed is as follows:
- Sprout the seeds between wet cotton or filter paper in a warm environment.
- Plant the new sprout in a pot with rich soil and keep it moist.
- Transplant the young plant to an aquarium once it is a few inches tall.
Disease and Pest Management for Echinodorus Humilis
Echinodorus humilis, also known as the Pygmy Chain Sword, is a popular aquatic plant that requires proper attention and maintenance to thrive. Diseases and pests can harm the plant, leading to stunted growth and death. Therefore, it is essential to understand the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and how to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Echinodorus humilis is root rot, which is caused by a fungus. The fungus attacks the roots, causing them to turn brown and mushy. As a result, the plant cannot absorb nutrients from the soil, leading to stunted growth and eventual death. To manage root rot, remove the infected plant from the aquarium and dispose of it. Additionally, sterilize the substrate and equipment before re-planting.
Another disease that affects the plant is yellowing of the leaves, which is caused by nutrient deficiency, water quality, or insufficient lighting. To manage this, ensure the plant is getting enough light and nutrients, and the water parameters are within the recommended range.
Common Pests
Echinodorus humilis is also prone to pest infestations, with the most common being snails. Some snails can cause extensive damage to the plant by eating the leaves. To manage snails, remove them manually or use a snail trap. Additionally, avoid overfeeding the fish, as excess food can attract snails to the aquarium.
Another pest that affects the plant is algae. Algae infestation can rob the plant of nutrients and light, leading to stunted growth. To manage algae, maintain proper water parameters by performing regular water changes and controlling the lighting period. Additionally, use an algae scrubber to remove any visible algae on the plant and aquarium surfaces.
Conclusion
To ensure Echinodorus humilis thrives in an aquarium, proper disease and pest management is crucial. By avoiding overfeeding, maintaining proper water parameters, providing adequate lighting, and removing infected plants, one can successfully manage diseases and pests that affect the plant.
