Anubias is a genus of flowering plants native to western and central Africa that has become a staple for both new and experienced aquarists worldwide. These aquatic plants, including popular varieties like Anubias barteri, A. nana, and A. coffeefolia, are celebrated for their thick, dark green foliage and low-maintenance nature. Their inherent hardiness and extremely slow growth rate make them highly adaptable to a wide range of water conditions and a perfect choice for nearly any freshwater aquarium setup. The plant’s resilience and minimal needs for trimming or specialized equipment contribute to its popularity.
Initial Setup and Planting Techniques
The most critical factor in establishing a healthy Anubias plant is understanding its unique structure and planting requirements. Anubias is a rhizome plant, meaning it grows from a thick, horizontal stem called the rhizome, from which both the leaves and roots sprout. This rhizome must remain exposed to the water column to survive.
Burying the rhizome directly into the substrate, gravel, or sand will cause it to suffocate and rot, leading to the plant’s death. Instead, secure the Anubias to a piece of hardscape material like driftwood or rock. Acceptable methods include tying the rhizome down using cotton thread or fishing line, which can be removed once the plant’s roots naturally anchor themselves to the surface.
Another common and effective technique involves using a small dab of cyanoacrylate gel, sold as aquarium-safe super glue, to adhere the bottom of the rhizome to the hardscape. Alternatively, gently wedge the root structure into small crevices or gaps within the rock work or wood. The thick, horizontal stem must be positioned so that it is not covered by the tank’s substrate.
Essential Environmental Conditions
Anubias species thrive, but their low metabolic rate dictates specific environmental needs. The plant prefers low to moderate light levels, with a PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) value between 15 and 50 µmol/m²/s being the target range. Placing the plant under high-intensity lighting is a common error.
Excessive light does not speed up the plant’s growth but instead encourages the rapid growth of algae on its slow-growing, broad leaf surfaces. To prevent this, aquarists often place their Anubias in shaded areas, such as beneath taller plants or under driftwood overhangs. A photoperiod of six to eight hours of light per day is sufficient for healthy growth and helps to keep algae growth minimized.
Anubias is tolerant of a wide array of water parameters, making it suitable for most tropical setups. Preferred water temperatures range from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C), and it adapts well to a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Consistent water quality and stable parameters are more beneficial than chasing specific numbers within this broad range.
Long-Term Health and Propagation
Since Anubias is not primarily rooted in the substrate, it absorbs nutrients directly from the water column rather than from the soil. Therefore, weekly dosing with a comprehensive liquid fertilizer containing micronutrients like iron and potassium is highly recommended to support long-term health. While it can survive without added carbon dioxide (CO₂), providing liquid carbon or a pressurized CO₂ system can result in slightly faster growth and more robust leaves.
The plant’s slow growth and tough leaves make it particularly susceptible to algae accumulation, which can block light and hinder photosynthesis. To manage this, gently wipe the leaves with a soft cloth or toothbrush to remove surface algae during routine tank maintenance. Introducing algae-eating tank inhabitants, such as Otocinclus catfish or certain shrimp species, also helps to keep the leaves clean.
To create new Anubias plants, propagation is achieved simply by division of the rhizome using a clean, sharp razor blade or pair of scissors. Cut the rhizome into separate sections, ensuring that each new piece retains at least three or four healthy leaves and some root structure. Each section is a new, viable plant that can then be secured to hardscape in a new location.
Propagating the plant by cutting the rhizome often stimulates dormant nodes to produce new shoots, which ultimately results in a bushier, denser mother plant over time. This method is the easiest and most reliable way to multiply your stock.