Product Description:

Echinodorus Red Devil (Echinodorus ‘Red Devil’) is a captivating aquarium plant that introduces a stunning pop of red to any aquatic environment. Its broad, elongated leaves range from deep maroon to fiery red, creating an eye-catching contrast with other green plants in your aquarium. Popular among aquarists for its aesthetic appeal and hardy nature, the Echinodorus Red Devil is an ideal choice for both beginners and seasoned hobbyists. Below is a detailed guide on its care, water conditions, and compatible fish species.

Key Features:

• Plant Type: Rosette (rooted) aquarium plant
• Scientific Name: Echinodorus ‘Red Devil’
• Common Name: Red Devil Sword Plant
• Origin: Cultivated variety, native to South America
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast, depending on lighting and nutrient availability
• Maximum Height: 30–50 cm (12–20 inches)
• Leaf Color: Ranges from dark red to deep maroon, may develop green shades under low light conditions
• Lighting Requirements: Medium to high
• Placement: Background or centerpiece due to its height and visual impact

Water Conditions:

The Echinodorus Red Devil thrives in a variety of freshwater aquarium conditions. To ensure optimal growth and vibrant coloration, maintaining the following water parameters is crucial:

• Temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F)
• pH: 6.0 to 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
• Water Hardness: 3 to 12 dGH (soft to moderately hard water)
• CO2 Requirements: CO2 supplementation is recommended but not essential. It significantly enhances growth and deepens red coloration.

Lighting Requirements:

• Light Intensity: Medium to high lighting is necessary for the plant to develop its signature red hues. Under low light, the plant may grow slower and its leaves may turn greener.
• Photoperiod: 8–10 hours of light per day is ideal.

Substrate and Fertilization:

• Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate is ideal for the Echinodorus Red Devil. A base layer of aquarium soil or specialized plant substrate will promote healthy root growth.
• Fertilization: While not strictly necessary, regular dosing of liquid fertilizers that contain micronutrients, particularly iron, will help maintain the plant's vivid red color. Root tabs can also be added to provide nutrients directly to the plant's roots.

Maintenance Level:

• Difficulty Level: Moderate. The Echinodorus Red Devil is a relatively low-maintenance plant, especially for aquarists who can provide adequate lighting and a nutrient-rich environment. Regular pruning is necessary as the plant can grow quite large and outcompete other plants in the tank.
• Pruning: Trim dead or damaged leaves regularly to promote healthy growth. If the plant becomes too large, it can be carefully divided, and the extra portions can be transplanted or traded with other aquarists.
• Propagation: The Echinodorus Red Devil reproduces through runners. New plantlets will grow from the parent plant’s root system, which can be separated and replanted once they have a sufficient root structure.

Tank Compatibility:

Echinodorus Red Devil is a fantastic addition to a variety of freshwater aquarium setups. It creates a natural habitat for fish, providing hiding spots and a grazing surface for algae eaters.

• Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 20 gallons is recommended due to its size and growth rate.
• Positioning: Best placed in the background or center of the tank as a focal point due to its tall growth.

Compatible Fish Species:

This plant pairs well with a wide variety of freshwater fish, many of which enjoy interacting with the plant as part of their natural behavior.

• Angelfish: Love to swim through the broad leaves and use them as cover.
• Discus: Enjoy the shade provided by Echinodorus Red Devil’s large leaves, which mimics their natural environment.
• Gouramis: Thrive in tanks with this plant, where they can find hiding spots and foraging surfaces.
• Tetras: Small schooling fish like neon tetras and cardinal tetras often find shelter in the plant’s broad leaves.
• Cichlids: Some species of peaceful cichlids enjoy swimming around this plant, although care must be taken as more aggressive cichlids may uproot it.
• Shrimp and Snails: Great for providing cover and a grazing surface for algae and biofilm.

Ideal Aquarium Setup:

For the best visual and biological effect, consider adding driftwood, rocks, or other green plants such as Java Fern or Amazon Swords to complement the Echinodorus Red Devil. The combination of red and green hues will create a balanced and vibrant aquatic landscape.