Echinodorus speckled

Speckled Echinodorus, scientific name Echinodorus maculatus “Leopard” or Echinodorus aspersus (obsolete). It originates from South America, where it grows in a humid environment in swamps and along the banks of rivers and streams. During the rainy season, it is under water for a long time.

There is a lot of confusion about the scientific name of this plant. It has been known in the aquarium hobby since the 1980s. and was previously thought to be an ornamental variety derived from Echinodorus Schlüter. However, according to new research conducted in 2006 by botanist Jozef Somogyi, it was determined that this is a completely new species of Echinodorus, although very similar to Echinodorus schlueteri.

When submerged, Echinodorus speckled rarely grows above 25 cm. The leaves have a narrow oval-lanceolate shape with a slightly wavy edge. The size of the leaf blade directly depends on the amount of nutrients in the soil and usually ranges from 6 to 16 cm in length. In the surface position, the bush grows more than twice. A characteristic feature of this species are reddish-brown spots.

Considered a good choice for the beginner aquarist. It adapts perfectly to a wide range of pH values, temperatures, light levels and does not need additional CO2. The plant prefers nutritious soil. Intensive growth is observed at a high nitrogen concentration, for example, in aquariums with many fish. Under conditions of lack of minerals and / or low water levels, floating leaves can form on the surface. If they appear, then the plant does not feel the best way.

In some cases, it can be used as a garden plant, planted along the banks of the pond in the warm season. In southern latitudes with mild winters, it can even overwinter, provided that the rhizome is not subject to frost. In spring, new leaves appear in place of dead leaves.