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About Bolbitis

Bolbitis, commonly known as African Water Fern, is a beautiful aquatic fern with delicate, deeply divided green fronds. It is particularly popular for attaching to driftwood and rocks, where it creates a natural, established appearance.

Unlike rooted aquarium plants, Bolbitis has a creeping rhizome and should not have its rhizome buried in the substrate. Once attached to hardscape, the roots gradually anchor themselves and the plant can continue producing new fronds.

Bolbitis is relatively slow growing and prefers stable aquarium conditions with good water circulation. It can thrive without CO₂, although CO₂ supplementation can encourage faster growth and larger, healthier foliage.

Its fine, textured leaves make it an excellent contrast against broad-leaved plants such as Anubias and larger Sword plants. The foliage also provides excellent grazing surfaces and shelter for shrimp.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Bolbitis heudelotii
Common Name: Bolbitis / African Water Fern
Plant Type: Aquatic Fern / Rhizome Plant
Growth Rate: Slow to Moderate
Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Lighting: Low to Moderate
CO₂ Required: No
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 6.0–7.5
Water Hardness: Soft to Moderately Hard
Placement: Midground to Background / Hardscape
Suitable For: Planted aquariums, shrimp tanks, Nature Aquariums, community tanks, and low-tech setups

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Bolbitis need CO₂?

No. Bolbitis can grow successfully without CO₂, although CO₂ can improve growth and encourage larger fronds.

Can Bolbitis be planted in substrate?

The rhizome should remain above the substrate. Attach the plant to driftwood or rocks and allow the roots to anchor naturally.

Can Bolbitis grow on driftwood?

Yes. Driftwood and rocks are ideal surfaces. Aquarium-safe glue, thread, or simply securing the plant between hardscape can be used.

Is Bolbitis good for shrimp tanks?

Yes. Its fine foliage provides excellent grazing surfaces for biofilm and shelter for shrimp and shrimplets.

Does Bolbitis grow quickly?

No. It is a relatively slow-growing fern, which means it requires very little maintenance once established.

Common Mistakes

Burying the rhizome
This is the biggest mistake. Keep the rhizome exposed to prevent rot.

Using excessive lighting
Bolbitis does not require intense lighting. Excessive light can encourage algae on its slow-growing leaves.

Poor water circulation
Good flow helps keep the delicate fronds clean and supports healthy growth.

Moving the plant frequently
Once attached, leave it undisturbed while the roots establish.

Expecting fast growth
Bolbitis is naturally slow growing. Give it time to establish and produce new fronds.