[Chapter 1: Introduction]
【Child】 Hey Professor, my teacher read us the story of the “Magic Flute” today. The lush green forests in the tale fascinated me. I wish to create such an enchanting world of green within my tiny aquarium! Can you think of an aquatic plant that might help me do so?
【Professor】 Ah, the Magic Flute! That has got to be one of my favorites. Your dream of creating a magical green underwater forest is delightful! The perfect plant for this task is the Bolbitis heudelotii, commonly known as the African water fern. This beautiful fern will paint a fascinating picture inside your aquarium. This article covers the features, characteristics, cultivation, and precautions about this magical aquatic plant.
[Chapter 2: Characteristics]
【Child】 Professor, could you describe Bolbitis heudelotii like you were painting the water fern with words for me? And just how much of an underwater forest can I create in a small aquarium?
【Professor】 Of course, my dear! Let me paint you the picture of the enchanting Bolbitis heudelotii. This aquatic fern boasts eye-catching dark green leaves, a captivating sight to behold. These leaves grow from long, black rhizomes that resemble the vines of ancient treasured woods. Their dew-drenched, finger-like fronds can grow up to 16 inches long, making it appear as if they have surfaced straight out of a fairy tale.
Bolbitis heudelotii is highly versatile, suitable for aquariums of various sizes. In a small aquarium, it brings forth a magical forest reminiscing the Magic Flute, while larger tanks can bask in its rejuvenating, serene grace. The spot you choose for planting the fern also plays a significant role in its growth, determining the plant’s ultimate form and beauty.
[Chapter 3: Cultivation]
【Child】 Professor, I am still new to the art of cultivating these magical plants. Can a beginner like me, who’s still struggling to balance pH and temperature, succeed in growing such a breathtaking underwater forest? Also, could you tell me about growing Bolbitis heudelotii alongside land plants?
【Professor】 Do not fret, my little green-enthusiast! While Bolbitis heudelotii does require a bit of extra care, its magical appearance is worth the effort. This plant asks for moderate to high lighting levels, generous amounts of CO2, a stable temperature range of 68-82°F, and mildly acidic water (pH 6-7.5). As for water hardness, soft to moderately hard water (GH 1-10) and a low carbonate hardness (kH 1-10) is ideal for the African water fern.
Bolbitis heudelotii can grow with terrestrial plants too. Its rhizomes simply need to be attached to rocks or driftwood. Once above water, the ferns will grow lush alongside your land plants, spreading their soothing, emerald-green magic throughout the abode.
【Child】 I’m so excited to bring home my own Bolbitis heudelotii! But before diving into the cultivation progress, do tell me, Professor, are there any precautions I must take to protect my enchanting underwater world?
[Chapter 4: Precautions]
【Professor】 As much as we adore the beauty of Bolbitis heudelotii, certain precautions must be taken. Avoid burying the plant’s rhizomes in the substrate as this could lead to rotting. Also, make sure to gently tie the rhizomes to ornaments or stones for support during their young stages – never glue them.
It’s essential that you monitor the growth of algae on their leaves, as the buildup can block the fern’s absorption of light and vital nutrients.
Thankfully, Bolbitis heudelotii coexists harmoniously with most aquarium inhabitants. However, fish species that nibble on plants, such as some barbs and cichlids, could damage the charming leaves of your enchanting water fern.
[Chapter 5: Summary]
【Child】Oh, Professor! It seems like Bolbitis heudelotii is the perfect fern to create an elegant, magical underwater forest! I understand how important it is to provide the right conditions and to take precautions for the safety of my aquatic inhabitants. I cannot wait to grow this transcendent greenery in my aquarium!
【Professor】 I’m glad you’ve taken a liking to Bolbitis heudelotii, and I’m confident that you’ll succeed in crafting a mesmerizing underwater forest! With proper care, patience, and a touch of love, aquarium plants like Bolbitis heudelotii will reward you with a captivating, otherworldly charm that enriches your aquatic environment.