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Bolbitis heudelotii (African Water Fern)

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Originating from West Africa, Bolbitis heudelotii, commonly known as the African Water Fern, is a highly sought-after epiphyte in the aquascaping hobby. Its striking, dark green, deeply lobed leaves provide excellent contrast and natural beauty when attached to hardscape elements like driftwood or rocks.
Bolbitis heudelotii (African Water Fern)

Description

Bolbitis heudelotii is a beautiful fern from West Africa with elegant, transparent, dark green leaves. As an epiphyte, it grows best when its rhizome is attached to wood or rocks. The rhizome must never be buried in the substrate, as this will restrict water flow and cause it to rot.

Care and Maintenance

This plant is generally undemanding and thrives in a variety of water conditions. While it can grow in low light and without added CO2, the addition of CO2 and slightly acidic, soft water will significantly boost its growth rate and overall health. It is naturally a slow grower, which makes it very easy to maintain and prune once established in the aquarium.

Aquascaping Application

Due to its highly textured, dark foliage, Bolbitis heudelotii is perfect for creating depth and contrast in the aquascape. It is typically placed in the midground or background, securely tied or glued to hardscape materials. Its sweeping, fern-like fronds provide excellent hiding spots for fish and shrimp while adding a wild, natural aesthetic to the layout.

Plant info

Colors: Green, Dark green
Difficulty: Easy
Origin: Africa
Usage: On rock or root
Type: Rhizomatous
Growth rate: Slow
Height: 15 - 40 cm
Light demand: Low
CO2: Low
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