How To Take Care Of An Amazon Sword
Introduction to Amazon Sword
The Amazon sword is a species of aquatic plant native to South America. It is very popular in the aquarium trade and is widely used in freshwater tanks. The plant has long, narrow leaves that resemble a sword and can grow up to eighteen inches tall. The Amazon sword is a hardy plant, but it does require some special care to ensure its health and growth. In this article, we will discuss how to properly take care of an Amazon sword.
Lighting Requirements
The Amazon sword is a low-light plant, and it does not require high-intensity lighting. A low to moderate light intensity of 2 to 4 watts per gallon will be enough to support its growth. If the light intensity is too high, the leaves of the plant may start to yellow or burn. The lighting should be kept on for 12 to 14 hours per day.
Fertilization
The Amazon sword does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it is important to provide a steady supply of nutrients in order to maintain its health. A liquid fertilizer can be added to the aquarium once a week, and a granular fertilizer can be added to the substrate. A high-phosphorus fertilizer should be used to promote healthy leaf growth.
Water Quality
The Amazon sword is sensitive to water quality, and it will not do well in poor water conditions. The water should be kept clean and free of pollutants. The pH level should be kept between 6.5 and 7.5, and the temperature should be maintained between 72 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Regular water changes should be done to maintain the water quality.
Substrate
The Amazon sword prefers a soft and fine substrate such as sand or gravel. The substrate should be kept clean and free of debris. The substrate should be vacuumed regularly to remove any debris or waste that may have been introduced into the tank.
Prune and Propagate
The Amazon sword should be pruned regularly to prevent it from becoming too large. The leaves can be trimmed back with a pair of scissors. The plant can also be propagated by dividing the rhizome. The divided rhizomes can then be planted in a separate tank.
CO2 Injection
CO2 injection is not necessary for the Amazon sword, but it can help to improve the overall growth of the plant. CO2 can be added to the tank using a CO2 diffuser. The CO2 should be injected in small doses and the dosage should be monitored to make sure it does not become too high.
Conclusion
The Amazon sword is a hardy plant that can be grown in a wide range of aquariums. It does require some special care in order to ensure its health and growth. The lighting should be kept low to moderate and the substrate should be kept clean and free of debris. Regular pruning and fertilization should be done to promote healthy growth. CO2 injection is not necessary but it can help to improve the overall growth of the plant.
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