Chocolate Marble Sword

1 plant.

Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' is a cultivar of the Amazon Sword Plant known for its distinctive dark chocolate-colored leaves. Here are the care requirements to help you cultivate Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' successfully in your aquarium:

**1. Lighting:**
- Provide moderate to high-intensity lighting. Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' benefits from strong lighting to support its growth and maintain vibrant coloration.

**2. Substrate:**
- Plant Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' in a nutrient-rich substrate. Use a substrate with added nutrients or incorporate root tabs to provide essential elements for healthy growth.

**3. Fertilization:**
- Regularly dose a comprehensive liquid fertilizer to supply essential nutrients. This cultivar, like other Amazon Sword Plants, appreciates nutrient supplementation to support its robust growth.

**4. CO2 Injection:**
- While not strictly necessary, providing a source of CO2 can enhance growth and overall health. Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' can adapt to both low-tech and high-tech setups.

**5. Temperature:**
- Maintain a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C). This plant can adapt to various temperatures within this range.

**6. Water Parameters:**
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water is suitable. Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' is adaptable to various water parameters but prefers stable conditions.

**7. Pruning:**
- Remove any old or yellowing leaves regularly to promote new growth and maintain an attractive appearance. Pruning may also be necessary to control the size of the plant in the aquarium.

**8. Placement:**
- Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' is often used as a midground or background plant due to its size. Plant it behind smaller foreground plants to create a visually appealing arrangement.

**9. Water Flow:**
- Provide moderate water circulation. Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' does not require strong water flow, and a gentle current is usually sufficient.

**10. Tank Mates:**
- Choose tank mates that won't disturb the plant. Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' is generally not a target for herbivorous fish.

**11. Algae Control:**
- Maintain good aquarium hygiene to prevent algae growth. Keep the plant's surfaces clean for optimal light absorption.

**12. Observation:**
- Regularly observe the plant for any signs of nutrient deficiencies, pests, or diseases.
- Monitor its growth and adjust care routines based on the specific conditions of your aquarium.

By providing the right conditions, including proper lighting, substrate, and nutrient supplementation, you can enjoy the rich, chocolate-colored leaves of Echinodorus 'Chocolate Marble' in your aquarium.