Aponogeton bovianus

Scientific name: Aponogeton bovianus

Family: Aponogetonaceae

Maximum size reached under cultivation: 30 - 60 cm (11.81 - 23.62 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6.8 - 7.7

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 18°dGH (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 22 - 25 °C (71.6 - 77°F)

Preferred propagation method: Bulb shoots

Native to: Madagascar

Growth rate: Fast

Recommended substrate: Fine gravel

Lighting requirements: Bright

Ideal placement in tank: Midground

🌿 Common Name

Aponogeton bovianus does not have an officially established common name, but among aquarists, it is sometimes referred to as the “broadleaf Madagascar lace plant” due to its origin and similar appearance to other Aponogeton species.

🌍 Origin and Natural Habitat

This rare aquatic plant is native to Madagascar, where it naturally grows in slow-moving rivers and still freshwater bodies. Its native habitat is increasingly threatened by environmental degradation, making the species difficult to find in the wild and highly valued in the aquarium trade.

📍 Ideal Placement in Aquarium

Aponogeton bovianus is best suited for the midground to background of planted aquariums. Its long, arching leaves add a graceful, natural flow to aquascapes and are particularly effective in tall or deep tanks where vertical growth can be showcased.

💡 Lighting Requirements

This species requires moderate to high lighting to thrive. A minimum of 0.5 watts per liter (or equivalent LED lighting) is recommended to support healthy leaf development and growth. Bright but diffused light helps prevent algae buildup on the leaves.

🌱 Propagation

Aponogeton bovianus propagates through bulb division. Mature bulbs may occasionally produce small side shoots or offset bulbs, which can be carefully separated once they have developed roots. Propagation is relatively slow and unpredictable, making it less common than in other aquatic species.

🧱 Substrate and Nutrition

This plant prefers a nutrient-rich substrate such as fine gravel or sand. When planting, the bulb should be partially exposed to avoid rotting. Regular supplementation with root tabs or substrate fertilizers is beneficial for sustained growth and leaf quality.

⚙️ Difficulty Level

Moderately demanding. Aponogeton bovianus is sensitive to unstable water conditions and sudden changes in temperature or pH. It may occasionally enter a dormant phase after flowering, during which it benefits from cooler water temperatures and reduced lighting for several weeks before regrowing.

🔖 Categorization

This is a fully aquatic plant that requires year-round submersion. It does not tolerate emersed or floating growth and is unsuitable for paludariums or marginal zones. Aponogeton bovianus is best categorized strictly as an Aquatic plant and thrives in deep, stable freshwater aquariums.

📝 Short Description

Aponogeton bovianus is a rare and elegant bulbous plant with long, soft green leaves featuring wavy edges and a gentle flowing structure. Valued for both its rarity and aesthetic appeal, it is an excellent focal plant in well-maintained aquascapes. Unlike some related species, it must remain fully submerged year-round. Under stable conditions and sufficient lighting, it may produce occasional underwater flowers, adding a unique touch to planted tanks.