• New aquarium plant from the Philippines
• Still rarely available
• Excellent aquarium suitability
• Small light green, elliptic leaves

Description

Schismatoglottis prietoi is native to the Philippines and was first found on Cebu Island. It was scientifically described and named after the plant collector Esquerion Prieto in 2015. There are already few aquarium-suitable plants from river and stream banks among the many Schismatoglottis species, however S. prietoi is so far the only species that is a true aquatic also in the nature. It develops large stands in sandy to gravelly riverbeds by thin creeping rhizomes and runners, comparable to Cryptocoryne species. Its small, elliptic, glossy leaves resemble those of Anubias ‘Petite’ but are lighter green, the plant also grows faster than this Anubias.

This small aroid is perfectly suitable as aquarium plant and deserves a wide distribution in the hobby. Schismatoglottis prietoi can be planted into the ground, however there are also reports of its successful use as epiphyte on rock. It has no special demands and also thrives in medium-hard water, however medium lighting and a good nutrient supply via the water column are very beneficial. The growth may be quite slow in the beginning but accelerates after establishing. With time, this Schismatoglottis forms a dense, broad stand. It is easily propagating by splitting and separating of young plantlets.

This new, hitherto little known aquarium can be used in many ways, best as group in the foreground to midground of an aquarium. In “geographically correct” Asia-themed tanks it is a right replacement for similar Anubias forms, originating from Africa.