Pygmy Chain Sword

Echinodorus tenellus

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Alismataceae

📍 South America

Echinodorus Tenellus, the Pygmy Chain Sword, is a dwarf sword plant that forms a low, grass-like foreground carpet via prolific runners. Its narrow, strap-like leaves rarely exceed 10 cm (3.9 in), making it one of the few true sword plants suitable for foreground use. Under good lighting and CO2 it spreads rapidly; without CO2 growth is slower but still achievable.

Tank Mates

Otocinclus

Algae-eating fish that won't uproot or damage delicate carpet plants; beneficial for tank cleanliness

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Small, non-destructive shrimp that graze algae and won't disturb plant roots; thrive in same water parameters

excellent

Dwarf Hairgrass

Companion foreground plant with similar light and nutrient requirements; creates layered carpet effect

excellent

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful fish that won't uproot plants; add movement and color without causing damage

good

Amano Shrimp

Larger shrimp variety that controls algae effectively and respects planted carpets

excellent

Monte Carlo

Complementary foreground plant with similar growth requirements; creates dense, textured carpet

excellent

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency (Nitrogen/Iron)

Symptoms

Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, loss of vibrant coloration, slow runner development

Treatment

Increase liquid fertilizer dosing; add all-in-one fertilizer with chelated iron; ensure adequate macronutrient levels (NPK)

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces, reduced photosynthesis, plant vigor decline

Treatment

Increase water changes (30-50% weekly); reduce light duration to 8-10 hours; add algae-eating fish or shrimp; improve water flow

Root Rot (Poor Substrate Conditions)

Symptoms

Mushy roots, plant detachment from substrate, black/brown discoloration at base, stunted growth

Treatment

Improve substrate aeration; add root tabs with beneficial bacteria; increase water circulation; ensure substrate isn't compacted or anaerobic

Melting (Adaptation Stress)

Symptoms

Leaves dissolving or becoming translucent, plant appearing to shrink, leaf loss

Treatment

Maintain stable water parameters (pH 6.5–7.5, temp 20–28°C); increase CO2 gradually; ensure adequate lighting; be patient as plant acclimates (2–4 weeks)