Echinodorus tenellus

Scientific name: Echinodorus tenellus

Family: Alismataceae

Usual maximum size in aquariums: 5 - 10 cm (1.97 - 3.94 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 20 - 29 °C (68 - 84.2°F)

Reproduction of the plant: Runners

Origin (in the wild): North America

How fast these plants grow: Fast

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Demands on lighting: Medium

Ideal placement in a fish tank: Foreground

Family

Alismataceae

Common Name

Narrow Leaf Chain Sword

Origin

Echinodorus tenellus is native to North and South America, thriving in wetland regions, shallow riverbanks, and marshy areas. It naturally experiences fluctuating water levels, allowing it to grow both fully submerged (submersed) and emersed. This adaptability makes it a resilient and versatile plant for various aquarium setups.

Propagation

Echinodorus tenellus propagates through runners, sending out horizontal stems beneath the substrate. These runners develop daughter plants at intervals along their length. Once the new plants establish root systems, they can be gently separated and replanted elsewhere in the aquarium to expand coverage.

For optimal propagation, plant specimens 2 cm apart to encourage a dense carpet formation. A nutrient-rich substrate with root fertilizers will promote strong growth, ensuring a vibrant foreground cover.

Difficulty

Easy – This plant is beginner-friendly, growing quickly and requiring minimal care. It tolerates a range of water conditions but thrives best in stable environments with sufficient nutrients and lighting.

Short Description

Echinodorus tenellus, commonly known as the Narrow Leaf Chain Sword, is a popular foreground plant prized for its ability to create a lush, grass-like carpet in aquariums. It typically grows between 5 - 10 cm (1.97 - 3.94 inches) in height, making it ideal for nano tanks and aquascaped layouts.

Under moderate to high lighting, this plant remains compact and spreads rapidly through runners. However, if placed in shaded areas or beneath taller plants, its growth may become sparse and elongated. To encourage dense, uniform coverage, provide bright lighting and nutrient-rich substrates such as fine gravel or aquarium soil.

Maintenance and Care

Temperature: 20 - 29°C (68 - 84.2°F)
pH Range: 6.2 - 7.5
Water Hardness: 4 - 18°dGH (71.43 - 321.43 ppm)
Lighting: Moderate to high; brighter lighting ensures compact growth.
Substrate: Fine gravel or nutrient-rich soil is ideal for root development.

For best results, provide CO₂ supplementation, which enhances its growth rate and overall appearance. Although it can survive in low-tech setups, adding liquid fertilizers and root tabs will support its nutrient demands. Regular trimming of runners helps control spread and maintains a tidy carpet.

Compatibility

Echinodorus tenellus is compatible with most community fish species and shrimp. Its dense carpet provides excellent cover for small fish, fry, and shrimp, making it a valuable addition to breeding tanks. This plant is well-suited for aquascapes featuring:

Neon Tetras (Paracheirodon innesi)
Pygmy Corydoras (Corydoras pygmaeus)
Ember Tetras (Hyphessobrycon amandae)
Cherry Shrimp (Neocaridina davidi)

However, caution is needed with digging cichlids, large plecos, and goldfish, as they may uproot or damage the delicate carpeting growth.

Submersion and Aquascaping

Echinodorus tenellus is a fully submersible plant and is highly favored in aquascaping. It is frequently used in foreground layouts, where it forms a lush green carpet, enhancing the natural beauty of planted tanks.

In high-tech CO₂-enriched setups, this plant maintains a compact form with bright green leaves, whereas in low-tech tanks, growth may be slightly taller and less dense. It pairs well with small driftwood pieces and stones, creating a natural riverbed effect. This species is commonly found in Amazonian biotope aquariums, complementing plants such as:

Amazon Sword (Echinodorus amazonicus)
Hygrophila corymbosa (Hygrophila corymbosa)
Dwarf Hairgrass (Eleocharis parvula)

Thanks to its rapid growth and easy maintenance, Echinodorus tenellus is a top choice for beginners and experienced aquarists alike, offering a dynamic and natural aesthetic to planted aquariums.