1. Introduction
【Child】: Professor, do you remember the enchanted lake in the story “The Water Lily – A Fairy Trail” where beautiful water lilies adorned the waters? It makes me wonder, do such mesmerizing aquatic plants exist in the world of aquariums?
【Professor】: What a fascinating question, my dear! Indeed, there is a vast world of aquatic plants to explore, each with its own unique charm. While we can’t recreate the exact magic of that enchanted lake, we can certainly bring some of its beauty to our aquariums. Today, let’s discuss a particularly captivating species called Echinodorus osiris ‘Barthii’, also known as Red Melon Sword. You’ll see how its enchanting beauty perfectly suits an aquarium world.
2. Characteristics
【Child】: Professor, if Echinodorus Barthii were a character in literature, who would it be compared to? I am trying to imagine its appearance in my mind!
【Professor】: That’s a delightful question! I’d say Echinodorus Barthii is akin to Aphrodite in Greek mythology, the goddess of beauty and love. Its stunning appearance and alluring colors would certainly leave every onlooker enchanted.
To be more precise, Echinodorus Barthii has elongated, lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches in length. The leaves have a captivating deep red hue that gradually turns green towards the base. As for its growth habits, this aquatic plant forms a rosette and spreads out in clusters. It can be a great focal point in the midground or background of an aquarium, depending on its size.
【Child】: A rosette that spreads like Aphrodite’s love? How mesmerizing! How does one determine the suitable aquarium size for this beauty?
【Professor】: Echinodorus Barthii can be grown in various aquarium sizes; however, it shines best in medium to large tanks. Given its height, it may not be suitable for nano tanks. Keep in mind that the growth and size of the plant may be impacted by its planting position and the aquarium environment.
3. Cultivation
【Child】: Since we’ve established that Echinodorus Barthii is Aphrodite’s underwater equivalent, how does one please this aquatic goddess?
【Professor】: (laughs) Now, that’s an interesting way to ask about the cultivation requirements! Echinodorus Barthii is a relatively easy aquatic plant to grow, even for beginners, but it does have specific requirements.
Light: This plant loves plenty of light. Ensure your aquarium receives at least medium to high-intensity light to boost its growth and maintain its captivating colors.
CO2, pH, GH, kH: Echinodorus Barthii flourishes in an environment with consistent CO2 supplementation. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (6.0-7.0) and soft to moderately hard water (GH of 2 to 10 °dKH).
Temperature: These plants thrive in temperatures ranging from 68 to 78°F (20 to 26°C), enabling them to coexist with various tropical fish species.
Substrate/fertilization: For optimal growth, use nutrient-rich soil and provide adequate fertilization in your aquarium. Regular root fertilization and the addition of iron can help maintain lush, vibrant growth.
Propagation: Echinodorus Barthii reproduces underwater via runners or adventitious plantlets. Nonetheless, the inflorescences can emerge above water, producing flowers and seeds, which can also be used for propagation.
4. Precautions
【Child】: In fairytales, there is often a stratum where beauty comes with a dark secret or a catch. Is there something like that with Echinodorus Barthii?
【Professor】: Your concerns are understandable. While there’s no dark secret with Echinodorus Barthii, there are certainly a few precautions to keep in mind.
1. Make sure your aquarium’s size and conditions meet the plant’s requirements.
2. Ensure a stable environment by adjusting its growth, especially in smaller tanks, or the plant may outcompete other aquatic plants for resources.
3. Be cautious when placing Echinodorus Barthii with herbivorous fish, as they might find its leaves irresistible, ultimately harming the plant.
5. Summary
【Child】: To grow this goddess-like plant, what I’ve learned is that one must understand its nature and ensure a suitable environment.
【Professor】: Precisely! Echinodorus Barthii’s captivating beauty can be a masterpiece addition to your aquarium. By understanding its characteristics, cultivation needs, and precautions for coexistence with other organisms, you too can become the guardian of this aquatic Aphrodite, bringing a magical touch to your aquatic sanctuary.