Staurogin Port-Vello

Staurogyne Port Velho, scientific name Staurogyne sp. Porto Velho. According to one version, the first samples of this plant were collected in the Brazilian state of Rondonia near the capital of the region of Porto Velho, which is reflected in the name of the species.

It is worth noting that at first this plant was erroneously referred to as Porto Velho Hygrophila (Hygrophila sp. “Porto Velho”). It was under this name that it originally appeared in the US and Japanese markets, where it became one of the most popular new species used in aquarium decoration in the foreground. At the same time, the closely related species Staurogyne repens was actively used in this role among European aquarists. Since 2015, both types are equally available in Europe, America and Asia.

Staurogyne Port Velho resembles Staurogyne repens in many ways, forming a creeping rhizome along which low stems grow densely with closely spaced pointed lanceolate leaves.

The differences lie in the details. The stems have a slight tendency to vertical growth. Under water, the leaves are somewhat darker with a purple color.

Equally suitable for both aquarium and paludarium. In favorable conditions, it forms low dense thickets that require regular thinning, which is considered more preferable than the removal of large fragments.

Growing is quite difficult for a beginner aquarist and requires a stable supply of macro- and micronutrients in small doses, combined with strong lighting. For rooting, soil consisting of large particles is best suited. Specialized granular aquarium soil is a good choice.