Bolbitis heudelotii, commonly known as the African Water Fern, is a graceful, semi-aquatic fern prized for its delicate, lace-like green leaves and slow, elegant growth. Native to tropical West Africa, it thrives in freshwater aquariums with gentle flow and low to moderate lighting.
Here’s a detailed care guide:
Common Names: African Water Fern, Congo Fern
Type: Rhizomatous aquatic fern
Growth Rate: Slow
Leaf Structure: Fine, translucent, dark green fronds
Size: 15–40 cm tall (can grow larger under ideal conditions)
Placement: Midground or background
Origin: Tropical West Africa
Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
pH: 5.5–7.5 (prefers slightly acidic to neutral)
Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard
CO₂: Optional, but enhances growth and leaf size
Level: Low to moderate
Tips:
Avoid intense light—it may encourage algae on the leaves.
Works well in shaded or partially shaded areas of the tank.
Do NOT bury the rhizome—it will rot.
Best attached to:
Driftwood
Rocks
Cork bark (in paludariums or ripariums)
Attachment method: Fishing line, thread, or cyanoacrylate (gel-type) super glue
Spacing: Give room for fronds to spread and wave in current
Water column dosing: Important for healthy growth (especially potassium and micronutrients)
Substrate feeding: Not needed unless rooted into substrate
Iron: Can enhance deeper green coloration
CO₂ injection: Optional but beneficial—makes growth faster and fronds lusher
Moderate flow is ideal – helps keep the leaves clean and oxygenated
Avoid stagnant areas where detritus may collect on fronds
Trimming: Remove yellow or decaying fronds at the base
Propagation: Divide the rhizome (make sure each portion has healthy fronds and roots)
Growth pattern: Horizontal rhizome creeps slowly across hardscape
Problem | Cause | Fix |
---|---|---|
Melting/frond loss | Transplant shock or drastic parameter change | Stable conditions; allow 1–2 weeks to adapt |
Algae on fronds | Too much light or slow flow | Reduce light, increase flow, add algae grazers (e.g. Amano shrimp) |
Rhizome rot | Buried in substrate or poor circulation | Keep rhizome exposed and ensure good flow |
Safe for: Shrimp, snails, peaceful community fish
Avoid with: Plant-eating fish (e.g., goldfish, certain cichlids)
Great in:
Low-tech aquariums
Blackwater or biotope tanks
Paludariums and ripariums (can grow emersed in high humidity)
Use soft, slightly acidic water if possible
Anchor the plant to stone or wood with decent flow
Be patient—this is a slow grower
Keep algae off delicate leaves by managing light and flow