Eleocharis sp. "Xingu"

Description

Eleocharis sp. "Xingú" is a rare aquatic plant that has not been identified to species level. Its trade name suggests it was collected in Rio Xingú, Brazil, but its exact origin is unknown. The plant grows emersed blades up to 20 cm long and submersed blades over 50-60 cm long. They are 1 mm wide with an oval-flattened cross section. Unlike E. vivipara, it does not produce plantlets on blade tips. Emersed blades end in light green or greenish-brown ears (5x2.5mm) and may be longer than standard hairgrass. It grows tufted blades and subterranean runner-like rhizomes with individual blades forming at each node. Ideal growth conditions include intensive light, CO2 injection, nutrient-rich substrate, and soft water. However, tolerance to other conditions is unknown. Newly planted individuals may require time to adapt to aquarium conditions. This plant has a grasslike appearance and can grow high in tanks, making it a suitable alternative to E. vivipara.