Montevideo Spike Rush

Eleocharis montevidensis

Family : Cyperaceae

PlantFreshwatergazonnante

A grass-like carpeting plant with fine, upright stems, ideal for background or midground. It forms dense, slender clumps.

Montevideo Spike Rush — photo 1 sur 4
Andrés González · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.01 / 4
Popularity
Carpet (advanced)
CO₂ + intense light
Availability
Order only
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

Eleocharis montevidensis produces bright green cylindrical stems 20–40 cm tall, with no visible leaves. It spreads via underground stolons and quickly forms an airy lawn. In the aquarium, it prefers moderate to high light and tolerates a wide range of parameters. Its fine stems sway gently with the current, adding natural movement. It is often used to create meadow or background effects. Growth is moderate and it requires little maintenance once established.

Habitat

Region :

Wetlands, marshes, floodplains

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature1826 °C
pH68
GH215 °dGH
KH210 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 2 mg/L
CO₂
≤ 20 mg/L
Light
Medium

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Photosynthetic
Min. tank
40 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
40 cm
Lifespan
3 years
Temperament
Peaceful
Propagation
Stolons

Care notes

Optimal parameters: temperature 18–26°C, pH 6–8, GH 2–15, KH 2–10. Nitrates < 20 mg/L, phosphates < 2 mg/L. Moderate to high light (0.3–0.5 W/L), CO2 optional but beneficial (max 20 mg/L). A nutrient-rich substrate promotes dense growth. Compatible with most fish and shrimp. Occasional trimming to control height. Avoid fish that dig up stolons. Can be planted in groups for a fuller effect.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References