Echinodorus opacus is a remarkable, beautiful swordplant wild type that originates from Paraná state in southeastern Brazil, occurring in fast-flowing rivers. Described as a species by Karel Rataj in 1970, it is likely a natural hybrid from the Echinodorus grandiflorus species group. There are different plants under that name, however our plant is a small form that is already cultivated since the 1970’s as Echinodorus opacus. Due to its low propagation rate it is still a rarity. Only recently the name addition “Rataj” is used to designate this small E. opacus form.
Very different from the many big, fast-growing Echinodorus types, this plant grows slow and hardly flowers. It developes a creeping rhizome and hard, stiff, dark green leaves with ovate blade. It is particularly attractive through its light nervature that contrasts with the darker leaf tissue.
Echinodorus opacus “Rataj” is not really demanding and is content with medium light intensity, however it benefits much from nutrient-rich substrate and CO2 supply. The temperatur may drop below 20 °C, corresponding to the subtropical climate in southern Brazil with already quite cool winters. With the growth of the rhizome, the leaf rosette shifts slowly on the ground. Long rhizomes can be cut into pieces for propagation. Side shoots will grow from buds on the rhizome parts.
This rare Echinodorus wild type is a special gem in aquariums, looking best as an adccent plant in the midground, in tall tanks also in the foreground. Old, broad specimens with many leaves are especially attractive. This plant should also be interesting for naturally designed aquariums, imitating a river biotope with pebbles and boulders.
-
Slow Growth:ÂUnlike many large, fast-growing Echinodorus species, Echinodorus opacus ‘Saona Carlos’ is exceptionally slow-growing.
-
Compact Form:ÂThis variant remains relatively small, typically growing to only about 3-4 inches in height, making it a compact alternative to larger sword plants.
-
Distinctive Foliage:ÂIt features hard, stiff, dark green leaves with ovate blades and prominent, contrasting light-green veining.
-
Creeping Rhizome:ÂThe plant develops a creeping rhizome that shifts slowly on the substrate as it grows, and long rhizomes can be cut to propagate new plants.
-
Nutrient-Rich Substrate:ÂEchinodorus opacus ‘Saona Carlos’ is a heavy root feeder, so a nutrient-dense substrate is crucial for its growth.Â
-
CO2 Supply:ÂA CO2 supply is highly beneficial for the plant’s health and vigor.Â
-
Light:ÂMedium to high light intensity promotes healthy growth and color development.Â
-
Water Conditions:ÂThe plant is not particularly demanding and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°C (68°F).Â
- Midground Accent:Â Its compact size and attractive foliage make it an excellent accent plant for the midground of aquariums.
- Tall Tanks:Â In taller tanks, it can be placed in the foreground for a unique display.
- Naturally Designed Aquariums:Â Echinodorus opacus ‘Saona Carlos’ is also ideal for biotope-style aquariums that aim to replicate natural river environments, complemented by pebbles and boulders.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.