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Bucephalandra Brownie Phantom
Bucephalandra sp. Brownie Phantom
Also known as Buce Brownie Phantom
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Liliopsida›Alismatales›Araceae
Bucephalandra Brownie Phantom is a compact, slow-growing rhizome plant prized for its deep brown to near-black foliage with subtle phantom-like patterning. Its small, textured leaves make it ideal for detailed aquascaping and nano tanks. This variety is more demanding than standard Bucephalandra but rewards careful keepers with striking aesthetic appeal.
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- epiphyte
- Temp
- 72–82°F
- 22–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm
- 4–8 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Compatible livestock
See all 5Peaceful algae grazer; will not disturb rhizome or leaves
Small, non-destructive; excellent for planted tanks with delicate plants
Gentle algae eater; may graze on plant surfaces but rarely causes damage
Tiny, peaceful schooling fish; will not uproot or damage plant
Complementary rhizome plant; pairs well visually and shares identical care requirements
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Common diseases 4Rhizome Rot, Leaf Melt / Transition Melt, Iron Deficiency / Micronutrient Deficiency, Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Rhizome Rot
Soft, mushy rhizome; blackening at attachment point; leaves detaching or melting rapidly
Ensure rhizome is not buried and water circulation is adequate. Remove affected portions with sterile tools. Reduce organic waste and improve water quality. Consider adding aeration.
Leaf Melt / Transition Melt
Older leaves yellowing, becoming translucent, and dissolving; new growth appears healthy
Normal acclimation response; maintain stable parameters (pH, temperature, light). Increase water change frequency. Ensure adequate CO2 and macronutrients. Melt typically resolves in 2-4 weeks.
Iron Deficiency / Micronutrient Deficiency
New leaves pale or yellowish with green veins; stunted growth; loss of dark coloration
Dose liquid fertilizer containing iron and trace elements (e.g., Flourish, Thrive, or equivalent). Increase CO2 injection if available. Perform weekly 25% water changes to maintain nutrient balance.
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced photosynthesis; plant appears dull
Manually remove algae with soft brush or cloth. Reduce lighting duration to 8-10 hours daily. Increase water circulation. Add algae-eating fauna (Amano Shrimp, Otocinclus). Ensure CO2 levels support plant growth over algae.
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.
The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.
At a glance
- CO₂
- recommended
- Growth
- Slow
- Placement
- epiphyte
- Temp
- 72–82°F22–28°C
- pH
- 6.0-7.5
- GH
- 71–143 ppm4–8 dGH
Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.
Keepers’ experiences
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