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Bolbitis heudelotii fern

Bolbitis heudelotii fern

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Bolbitis heudelotii fern
Product Details

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:


Bolbitis heudelotii – Care Guide

Quick Facts

  • 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


Water Parameters

  • 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


Lighting

  • 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.


Planting & Placement

  • 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


Fertilization

  • 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


️ Water Flow

  • Moderate flow is ideal – helps keep the leaves clean and oxygenated

  • Avoid stagnant areas where detritus may collect on fronds


✂️ Maintenance & Propagation

  • 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


⚠️ Common Problems

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

Tank Compatibility

  • 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)


✅ Tips for Success

  • 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

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