Echinodorus opacus Type B 'Iguazu 2009'

Echinodorus opacus ‘Iguazu 2009’ is a striking and uncommon sword plant variety, first introduced from the Iguazu region in South America in 2009. It’s a robust, medium-sized Echinodorus known for its deep green, leathery leaves that can develop subtle bronze tones under strong lighting.
Unlike many sword plants, ‘Iguazu 2009’ maintains a compact and tidy growth form, making it suitable not only for large aquariums but also for medium-sized aquascapes seeking a bold, natural focal point. Its sturdy, opaque leaves create an impression of strength and maturity — perfect for natural or biotope-style layouts.

How to Use in the Aquarium

Best placed in the midground to background, Echinodorus opacus ‘Iguazu 2009’ serves as a commanding centrepiece or anchor plant within the aquascape.
Its broad, upright leaves provide visual stability and contrast beautifully with finer-leaved plants such as Cryptocoryne, Sagittaria, or Helanthium species. Because of its moderate height and dense growth habit, it’s excellent for Amazon or South American-themed aquariums, especially when surrounded by driftwood and root-like hardscape.

To allow the plant to fully express its size and leaf structure, provide enough open space around it — overcrowding can restrict new leaf development.

Maintenance

This is a hardy and adaptable species, making it an excellent choice for hobbyists who appreciate easy long-term care with impressive results.
It thrives in nutrient-rich substrates and benefits greatly from root tab fertilisation, as Echinodorus species are heavy root feeders.
Lighting can range from moderate to high, though stronger light tends to enhance leaf colour and thickness.

CO₂ injection is optional but supports faster, more vibrant growth.
Trimming older or yellowing leaves from the base encourages fresh growth and helps maintain a clean, structured appearance.

Emersed Growth

Like most sword plants, Echinodorus opacus ‘Iguazu 2009’ can also be grown emersed, developing broader, thicker leaves and occasionally producing tall flower stalks with small white blooms.In emersed setups, it prefers high humidity and nutrient-rich soil. When transitioning between emersed and submerged growth, older leaves may melt, but new aquatic foliage will soon adapt to underwater conditions.