Scientific Classification
Kingdom:Plantae
Phylum:Tracheophytes
Class:Polypodiopsida
Order:Polypodiales
Family:Dryopteridaceae
Genus:Bolbitis
Species:heudelotii
IUCN Status:Least Concern
Quick Stats
Difficulty
Medium
Environment
Freshwater
Temperature
22°C - 28°C
pH Level
6 - 7.5
Water Hardness
36 - 143 ppm
Growth
Very Slow
Lighting
Low - Medium
Max Height
15-40 cm
Placement
Midground
CO2 Requirements
Low
Water Flow
Medium Flow
About This Species
The African Water Fern is a beautiful plant with dark green, almost see-through leaves that resemble a fern. It's a great choice for adding a lush, jungle-like feel to the middle of your fish tank. One of the most important things to know is that you should never bury its root-like base (called a rhizome) in the gravel or sand. If you do, it will rot and the plant will die. Instead, you need to attach it to a piece of driftwood or a rock using fishing line or aquarium-safe superglue. Over time, its own roots will grab on. This plant is a very slow grower, so be patient! It won't take over your tank and requires very little trimming. It’s considered 'medium' difficulty mainly because it prefers a stable, clean tank and can be sensitive to big, sudden water changes. The good news is that it doesn't need super bright lighting or extra CO2 gas, making it suitable for many simple aquarium setups. Its preference for lower light also helps prevent ugly algae from growing on its slow-growing leaves. It's a fantastic, low-maintenance centerpiece once it gets settled in.
Aquarium Building Information
Max Height
15-40 cm
Placement
Midground
Substrate
None
Attachment Method
Hardscape (attached to wood/rocks)
Growth Requirements
Lighting
Low - Medium
Growth
Very Slow
CO2 Requirements
Low
Water Flow
Medium Flow
plants.aquariumBenefits
Oxygen Production
Low
Waste reduction
Low
Generate Printable Card
Create a printable card for this plant to display in your store or aquarium. The card includes a QR code for quick access to more information.