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Aponogeton Boivinianus
Aponogeton boivinianus
Also known as Boivin's Aponogeton
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Alismatales›Aponogetonaceae
📍 Madagascar
One of the most dramatic Aponogeton species, producing enormous leaves up to 60 cm (23.6 in) long with distinctively hammered, dark green texture and strong midrib. A true specimen plant for large aquariums. It requires cooler periods to trigger dormancy and re-growth. Leaves arch gracefully, creating a bold backdrop in large layouts.
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Compatible Livestock
Small, peaceful algae-eaters that won't damage large leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness
Peaceful bottom-dweller that respects plants and thrives in similar water parameters
Tiny, non-aggressive schooling fish that navigate around large plants without causing damage
Excellent companion plant with similar care needs; creates layered aquascaping with contrasting leaf structure
Beneficial cleanup crew that grazes algae without harming plant tissue; adds color contrast
Nocturnal algae-eater that respects large plants and helps maintain water quality in spacious tanks
Common Diseases
Leaf Rot / Decay
Blackening, softening, or disintegration of leaf tissue; foul odor from affected areas; rapid deterioration of new growth
Remove affected leaves promptly with clean scissors; improve water circulation with aeration; reduce organic waste through increased water changes; ensure CO₂ and nutrient levels are adequate to support healthy growth
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing or pale leaves; stunted growth; weak or deformed new leaves; loss of the characteristic dark green coloration
Dose liquid fertilizers containing macronutrients (NPK) and micronutrients (iron, boron) weekly; consider root tabs if substrate is depleted; test water parameters and adjust CO₂ supplementation if needed
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green, brown, or black algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced light penetration to the plant; visible film or fuzzy growth on older leaves
Manually remove algae with a soft brush or cloth; reduce light duration to 8–10 hours daily; increase water circulation; introduce algae-eating fish or shrimp; maintain nutrient balance to prevent excess algae-promoting conditions
Dormancy Failure / Stunted Growth
Plant remains small and produces few new leaves; no flower spikes; leaves appear weak or pale despite adequate nutrients
Trigger dormancy by lowering temperature to 16–18 °C for 4–8 weeks and reducing light to 6–8 hours daily; maintain minimal fertilization during this period; after dormancy, gradually increase temperature and light to stimulate vigorous regrowth
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Beneficial
- light
- Medium–High
- placement
- Background specimen
- tank size
- 40 gallons minimum
- growth rate
- Moderate during growth
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.5
- hardness
- 2–15 dGH
- temperature
- 64–77°F (18–25°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.