Bucephalandra Red Mini

Bucephalandra sp. Red Mini

📍 Southeast Asia

Bucephalandra Red Mini is a compact, slow-growing rhizome plant prized for its deep red to burgundy leaf coloration, especially under high light and CO2 enrichment. Its small, textured leaves make it ideal for detailed aquascaping in foreground and midground placements. This variety is slightly more demanding than standard Bucephalandra but rewards patient aquarists with stunning crimson hues.

Tank Mates

Amano Shrimp

Non-destructive, grazes algae without damaging delicate leaves

excellent

Red Cherry Shrimp

Peaceful, small bioload, complements red coloration of plant

excellent

Otocinclus

Gentle algae eater that won't uproot or damage rhizome attachment

good

Ember Tetra

Small, peaceful schooling fish with minimal impact on plant structure

excellent

Dwarf Gourami

Calm temperament, non-destructive, adds visual interest without harming plant

good

Common Diseases

Rhizome Rot

Symptoms

Blackening or softening of rhizome, mushy texture, leaf loss from base

Treatment

Ensure rhizome is not buried in substrate; improve water circulation; reduce organic waste; perform partial water changes; consider adding aeration

Leaf Melt / Transition Melt

Symptoms

Older leaves turn translucent, dissolve, or fall off after planting or water parameter changes

Treatment

Maintain stable water parameters (pH, temperature, hardness); increase CO2 and lighting gradually; ensure adequate macro and micronutrient dosing; be patient—new leaves will regrow

Iron Deficiency / Chlorosis

Symptoms

Yellowing of new leaves while veins remain green; stunted growth; pale coloration instead of deep red

Treatment

Dose liquid iron fertilizer (chelated form) 1-2x weekly; increase macronutrient fertilization; ensure adequate lighting and CO2 to support nutrient uptake

Algae Overgrowth on Leaves

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces, reducing photosynthesis and aesthetic appeal

Treatment

Increase water circulation; reduce light duration if excessive (8-10 hours optimal); add algae-eating fauna (Amano shrimp, Otocinclus); manually remove algae with soft brush; maintain nutrient balance to outcompete algae

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Quick Facts

co2: recommended
lighting: medium
placement: epiphyte
substrate: Epiphyte; attach rhizome to hardscape (wood, rock, or mesh). Does not require substrate but benefits from nutrient-rich water column and occasional liquid fertilization.
growth rate: slow