TC – Helanthium Quadricostatus (Pygmy Chain Sword)

Introduction

Helanthium quadricostatus, commonly known as the Pygmy Chain Sword, is a beautiful and compact aquatic plant that is perfect for both beginners and experienced aquascapers. With its slender, sword-shaped leaves and dense growth habit, this plant forms a lush, green carpet in aquariums, making it an ideal choice for foreground planting. It’s known for its ability to adapt to various conditions while providing a natural, vibrant look to any freshwater tank.

Origin

Helanthium quadricostatus is native to the Americas, primarily found in the freshwater streams and marshy areas of South and Central America. Its adaptability and hardiness make it a popular choice for aquascapers worldwide.

Scientific Name

Helanthium quadricostatus (commonly known as Pygmy Chain Sword)

Lighting Requirements

This plant thrives under moderate to high light conditions. A lighting intensity of 2 to 3 watts per gallon will help promote healthy growth and vibrant green coloration. In low-light conditions, the plant’s growth may slow, and it may not spread as vigorously.

Care Level

Easy to moderate. The Pygmy Chain Sword is generally considered an easy-to-care-for plant, making it ideal for beginners. However, it may require some maintenance, such as regular trimming, to keep it looking its best and prevent it from spreading too much.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 22-28°C (72-82°F)
• pH: 6.5-7.5
• Hardness: 4-12 dGH
  Helanthium quadricostatus prefers slightly acidic to neutral water, but it is quite adaptable and can tolerate a range of water hardness levels.

Placement

The Pygmy Chain Sword is best placed in the foreground of the aquarium, where its small, sword-shaped leaves can create a dense carpet. Due to its compact size and spreading habit, it can also be used to fill in gaps between other plants or as a border plant.

Growth Rate

Moderate. Helanthium quadricostatus grows at a moderate pace, forming a lush carpet over time. It produces runners that spread across the substrate, allowing it to gradually fill in the foreground area.

CO2 and Fertilizer

While Helanthium quadricostatus can grow without additional CO2, it will thrive and grow more quickly with CO2 supplementation. Regular fertilization, especially with a substrate-based fertilizer or liquid supplements, will help support its growth and enhance its color.

Potential Problems

The main challenge with Helanthium quadricostatus is that it can become invasive in a tank if not trimmed regularly. It spreads quickly via runners, so it’s important to keep it under control to prevent it from taking over other plants. Additionally, poor water conditions or insufficient light can lead to slower growth or yellowing leaves.

Compatible Fishes

Helanthium quadricostatus is compatible with most peaceful aquarium fish, including tetras, guppies, and rasboras. It is also a great addition to tanks with small shrimp, such as cherry shrimp, that enjoy grazing on algae. Larger fish may uproot the plant or cause it to become damaged.

Other Suitable Plants

This plant pairs well with other low to medium-light plants such as Cryptocoryne species, Anubias, and Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus). It also looks great alongside taller background plants like Rotala or Ludwigia to create a balanced and natural aquascape.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Tropical water. Helanthium quadricostatus thrives in tropical freshwater tanks, where warm temperatures and stable conditions help it grow well.

What Fish Can Eat It?

Herbivorous fish, such as goldfish or certain species of snails, may nibble on the leaves of Helanthium quadricostatus, though it is not a primary food source for most aquarium species. It is generally safe from most fish that prefer other types of food.

A Fun Fact

Helanthium quadricostatus is known for its ability to spread quickly through runners, forming a beautiful, dense carpet that mimics the appearance of lush underwater meadows. Its fine leaves give it a delicate appearance, but it is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions.