Echinodorus Major/Martii

 Echinodorus Major, commonly known as the Ruffled Amazon Sword Plant, is a striking and versatile aquatic plant known for its lush green foliage and unique leaf texture. This plant can be an excellent addition to your freshwater aquarium, providing a beautiful and natural look.

1. Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: Echinodorus Major can thrive in various tank sizes, but it does best in aquariums with a capacity of at least 10 gallons or more.

2. Substrate:

• Use a nutrient-rich substrate like aquarium soil or fine gravel. Echinodorus Major is a root-feeding plant, and a suitable substrate will promote healthy root development.

3. Lighting:

• Echinodorus Major prefers moderate to high lighting conditions. Adequate light is essential for its growth and appearance.
• Utilize full-spectrum LED or fluorescent aquarium lights with a timer to maintain consistent lighting duration.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: Maintain a temperature range between 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C).
• pH Level: Keep the pH level in the range of 6.5 to 7.5.
• Water Hardness: Echinodorus Major is adaptable to a range of water hardness levels.

5. Water Quality:

• Use a reliable aquarium filter to ensure good water circulation and filtration.
• Perform regular water changes (approximately 10-20% every week) to maintain water quality and remove accumulated pollutants.

6. Plant Placement:

• Plant Echinodorus Major in the substrate with its roots buried in the gravel or substrate. Ensure that the crown (the point where the leaves emerge) is slightly above the substrate to prevent rot.
• Provide enough spacing between plants to allow for growth without overcrowding.

7. Fertilization:

• Regular fertilization is essential to meet the nutritional needs of Echinodorus Major. Use liquid or root tab fertilizers specifically designed for aquarium plants.
• Follow the instructions on the product label, typically fertilizing every 2-4 weeks, to provide essential nutrients like iron, potassium, and micronutrients.

8. Pruning and Maintenance:

• Regularly trim and remove any dead or decaying leaves to maintain the plant's overall health and appearance.
• Prune back excessive growth to prevent overcrowding in the aquarium.

9. Propagation:

• Echinodorus Major can be propagated by dividing the plant when it has grown sufficiently.
• Carefully separate a healthy portion of the plant with roots and leaves, and replant it in the substrate. Ensure that each divided portion has enough space to grow.

10. Aquascaping Placement:

• Echinodorus Major is versatile and can be used as a mid-ground or background plant in your aquarium. Its unique leaf texture adds visual interest to your aquascape.