Bucephalandra Upper Ghost *Emerge grown* (Super Rare)

Bucephalandra Upper Ghost 

The Bucephalandra 'Upper Ghost' water plant stands out with its rare beauty and otherworldly shimmering appearance. Aquascapers appreciate this plant from the Bucephalandra genus because of its flexible size options and unique leaf texture. The plant is recognized by its dark green or bluish-green foliage that exhibits a subtle metallic shine and displays reddish or purplish tones under perfect lighting conditions.

An explanation 

Leaves: The foliage shows deep green to bluish-green tones and features narrow lance-shaped leaves with undulating edges. The metallic sheen of the leaves becomes more pronounced when exposed to strong light. Specific forms of this plant species exhibit a delicate purple or reddish hue.

Size: This plant reaches a height of 2 to 4 inches based on the conditions of the tank.

Growth Rate: The plant grows at a slow pace which makes it ideal for detailed aquascaping designs.

Rhizome: The rhizome develops roots and leaves while remaining thick and creeping. The rhizome should be positioned above the substrate much like its rhizomatous plant counterparts.

Care Guide 

Tank specifications 

Size: This plant can fit into nano aquarium setups and expand to accommodate tanks of different sizes.

Conditions of the Water: 
Temperature range: 22–28°C (72–82°F) 
6.0 to 7.5 pH 
Soft to moderately hard water hardness 

Lighting: While low to medium lighting suffices for basic needs, stronger lighting will elevate its shiny metallic appearance. Avoid strong lighting as an excessive amount will cause algae to grow.
Rocks and driftwood serve as typical hardscape elements that secure the substrate. The rhizome requires exposure above the substrate surface when planting to prevent rot.

Maintenance and Planting 

Placement: Its placement in either midground or front positions depends on the aquascape design. The plant is suitable for intricate layouts and nano tanks due to its small size.

Fertilization: Liquid fertilizers provide micronutrient benefits. CO₂ supplementation is not necessary but it will enhance plant growth and coloration when applied.

Water Flow: The best water flow rate for plants should remain low to moderate to stop debris from settling on leaves.

Pruning: The plant's moderate growth rate means pruning is seldom necessary. Remove algae-covered and damaged leaves when necessary.

Propagating 

divides the rhizome to spread. The successful growth of each section depends on the presence of two to three leaves.

Applications 

Aquascaping: Nano tanks benefit from this species because of its compact size and unique coloration.
The plant enables the creation of complex designs such as nature-style aquascapes and Iwagumi arrangements.
Its shimmering leaves create depth and visual appeal in both low-tech and high-tech tanks.

Hardscape Design: 
Suitable for attaching to driftwood alongside pebbles and various other aquarium decorations.
Its slow growth pattern allows it to naturally merge with hardscape components.

Shrimp tanks: These elements provide hiding spots and feeding areas for shrimp and small fish.
Shrimp consume biofilm which gathers on its leaves naturally.
High-tech setups reveal its best colors and metallic shine while low-tech environments enable it to grow with minimal maintenance.

Difficulties 

Algae development: Its slow growth pattern makes Bucephalandra prone to developing algae on its leaves. Algae-eating organisms such as snails and Amano shrimp help keep algae in check.
Stunted growth along with fading coloration indicates nutrient deficiencies when the circumstances are unfavorable. Regular liquid fertilization promotes healthy plant development.

Delicate Rhizome: Planting the rhizome below the substrate will cause decay.
The Bucephalandra 'Upper Ghost' enhances any aquarium through its aesthetic beauty and adaptability. Aquascapers and collectors choose this plant because its metallic colors and small stature make it both distinctive and hardy.

Bucephalandra Upper Ghost stands out as an attractive aquatic plant because it combines brilliant visual appeal with uncomplicated maintenance needs. This plant grows well when submerged and emersed which allows it to fit into different aquarium environments. The range of deep green to purple colored leaves of this plant adds distinctive beauty to any aquarium ecosystem. Aquarium hobbyists prefer Bucephalandra Upper Ghost because of its strong resilience combined with its ability to adapt to different conditions.