Bucephalandra Skeleton King

🌿 Species Profile

• Common Name: Skeleton King Buce
• Scientific Name: Bucephalandra ‘Skeleton King’
• Plant Type: Rhizome epiphyte
• Origin: Borneo (cultivated aquarium form)
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate
• Placement: Foreground / midground (on hardscape)

🌱 Appearance

• Small to medium elongated leaves
• Dark green coloration with subtle blue/metallic shimmer under light
• Slightly wavy or rippled leaf edges
• Compact clump growth
• Size:
  • Height: 5–12 cm (2–5 in)
  • Width: small clumps spreading slowly

It is valued for its fine detail and jewel-like appearance.

🧪 Tank Requirements

• Temperature: 22–28°C
• pH: 5.5–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to medium
• Lighting: Low to medium (too much light can cause algae)
• CO₂: Not required but improves growth

🌿 Planting Method

• Must NOT bury rhizome
• Attach to:
  • Driftwood
  • Rocks
  • Aquascape hardscape
• Can be glued or tied

🌿 Feeding & Care

• Absorbs nutrients from water column
• Benefits from:
  • Liquid fertilizers (low dose)
  • Stable water conditions
• Very slow grower, but very stable once established

Care tips:

• Avoid strong direct lighting
• Remove old or melting leaves gradually
• Keep water stable (they dislike sudden changes)

🌱 Propagation

• Slow but simple:
  • Rhizome division
  • New shoots form from base over time

🐟 Aquarium Use

Best for:

• Nano aquascapes
• Driftwood/rock accent detailing
• High-end nature aquariums

Compatible with:

• Shrimp (especially Caridina/Neocaridina)
• Small rasboras and tetras
• Peaceful community fish