Anubias Care Guide
The ultimate beginner plant. Anubias (Anubias barteri) is nearly indestructible, thrives in low light, and doesn't require CO2. Perfect for any aquarium from nano tanks to large displays.
Why Keep Anubias?
Care Requirements
| Parameter | Acceptable Range | Ideal |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting | Low to Medium | Low (20-40 PAR) |
| CO2 | Not Required | Optional (enhances growth) |
| Temperature | 72-82°F (22-28°C) | 74-78°F (23-26°C) |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 | 6.5-7.5 |
| GH | 3-15 dGH | 6-10 dGH |
| Substrate | Not Required | Attach to hardscape |
| Fertilization | Low | Root tabs or liquid ferts |
Planting & Placement
Attaching to Hardscape
The best way to grow Anubias is attached to rocks or driftwood. This mimics their natural habitat and ensures the rhizome stays exposed. Several attachment methods work well.
Placement Options
Anubias works in almost any position. Smaller varieties like Nana Petite are perfect for foreground, while larger Barteri makes a striking midground or background focal point.
Propagation
Anubias propagates through rhizome division. As the plant grows, the rhizome extends and produces new leaves. You can divide it to create multiple plants.
Algae Prevention
The biggest challenge with Anubias is algae growth on leaves. Due to its extremely slow growth, Anubias cannot outcompete algae. Here's how to prevent and manage it.
Prevention Strategies
- Reduce light duration - Keep photoperiod to 6-8 hours maximum
- Lower light intensity - Place in shaded areas or under floating plants
- Add fast-growing plants - They compete with algae for nutrients
- Maintain good flow - Prevents algae from settling on leaves
- Don't overfeed - Excess nutrients fuel algae growth
- Regular water changes - Remove excess nutrients weekly
Algae-Eating Helpers
Anubias Varieties
All Anubias varieties share the same care requirements. Choose based on the size that fits your tank and aquascape.
| Variety | Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Anubias Nana | 2-6 inches | Most popular, compact growth |
| Anubias Nana Petite | 1-3 inches | Smallest variety, perfect for nano tanks |
| Anubias Barteri | 6-16 inches | Larger leaves, bold statement plant |
| Anubias Coffeefolia | 4-10 inches | Textured, wavy leaves like coffee plant |
| Anubias Frazeri | 6-12 inches | Narrow, elongated leaves |
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does anubias get algae?
Anubias gets algae because of its very slow growth rate. Fast-growing plants can outcompete algae for nutrients, but Anubias grows so slowly that algae has time to establish on its leaves. Combat this by reducing light duration to 6-8 hours, adding fast-growing plants, and using algae-eating tank mates like nerite snails or otocinclus.
How do I propagate anubias?
Propagate by dividing the rhizome. Using clean scissors, cut the rhizome into sections with at least 3-4 leaves and some roots each. Let the cut end dry for a few hours to callous over, then attach to hardscape with super glue gel or thread. Never bury the rhizome in substrate.
Can anubias grow in gravel?
Anubias should NOT be planted in gravel or any substrate. The rhizome (thick horizontal stem) must stay exposed above the substrate or it will rot. Instead, attach Anubias to rocks, driftwood, or decorations. You can anchor the roots in substrate, but the rhizome must remain visible.
How fast does anubias grow?
Anubias is one of the slowest-growing aquarium plants. Under optimal conditions, expect only 1 new leaf every 2-4 weeks. This slow growth means less maintenance and trimming, but also means damaged leaves take a long time to be replaced. CO2 injection can slightly increase growth rate but won't make it a fast grower.
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