More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | unknown |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Temperature Tolerance | 18°C / 64.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Carbonate Hardness | 0-14 kh |
| pH Value | 5-7.5 ph |
| Light | low-high |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 15-40mg/lmg/l |
| Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
| Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
| Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
| Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
The Bolbitis heteroclita "cuspidata," a member of the Dryopteridaceae family, is an aquatic fern originating from the Philippines, specifically the island of Luzon where it was initially found along the Lamao River. Initially described as its species, it is now regarded as a dwarf variant of the widely distributed Bolbitis heteroclita species in Asian tropical and subtropical regions. Unlike larger forms of B. heteroclita, which are not suitable for aquariums, the B. heteroclita "cuspidata" has demonstrated itself to be a highly suitable aquarium plant.
Aquarium Suitability
Considered a suitable aquatic plant for aquariums due to its adaptability and aesthetic features, the B. heteroclita "cuspidata" is categorized as having medium difficulty in care requirements. Its slow growth rate makes it ideal for nano tanks, midground, and even foreground placement. However, this plant is rarely available commercially or from other aquarists, limiting its accessibility to hobbyists.
Demands and Hardiness
The B. heteroclita "cuspidata" thrives in a temperature range of 23-28°C and can tolerate temperatures between 18-28°C. It requires a pH range of 5-7.5 and moderate lighting levels, from low to high intensity. Maintaining carbon dioxide levels between 15-40mg/l and nutrient levels within specific ranges of nitrate, phosphate, iron, and potassium are crucial for its health and growth (see table for details). While it can be grown emersed, its outdoor winter hardiness is unsuitable for colder climates.
Aquascaping & Usage
Ideal for epiphytic growth on hardscapes, the B. heteroclita "cuspidata" adds a unique texture and visual interest to aquascapes. When used in groups, this fern creates a lush and vibrant foreground or midground display. Its rhizomatous growth habit allows for propagation through leaf proliferation, rhizome division, or splitting for expanding the plant in the aquarium setting.
Propagation
Propagation of the Bolbitis heteroclita "cuspidata" is primarily achieved through the proliferation of leaves, rhizome division, or cutting and separating daughter plants from the main plant. This fern's ability to propagate easily makes it a favorable choice for aquarists looking to expand their aquatic plant collection.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat along the Lamao River in Luzon, Philippines, the Bolbitis heteroclita "cuspidata" thrives as an epiphytic or epilithic plant, utilizing its rhizomatous structure to anchor onto hard surfaces. While it originally existed as a separate species (Bolbitis cuspidata), it is now recognized as a variant of the broadly distributed Bolbitis heteroclita across various regions in Asia's tropical and subtropical areas.