Tropica Aquarium Plant - Anubias barteri var. nana
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The Tropica Aquarium Plant - Anubias barteri var. nana is ideal for beginner aquarists and experienced hobbyists seeking a low-maintenance, attractive plant. Its key benefit is its exceptional hardiness and adaptability to various tank conditions, making it a reliable choice. A caveat is its slow growth rate, meaning it won't rapidly fill out an aquarium. This compact plant features durable, dark green leaves and a prominent rhizome, typically reaching 5-10 cm in height.
All features
| Model Part Number | Anubias barteri var. nana |
|---|---|
| Brand | Tropica |
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FAQs
Can I bury the rhizome in the substrate?
No, burying the rhizome of Anubias barteri var. nana is strongly discouraged. It can lead to rot and plant death. The rhizome must be exposed to water and light.
What type of lighting does this plant need?
Anubias barteri var. nana prefers low to moderate lighting. It can tolerate higher light but may be more prone to algae growth.
How fast does this plant grow?
It is a very slow-growing plant. New leaves may appear only every few weeks or months, depending on conditions.
Can I propagate this plant?
Yes, Anubias can be propagated by cutting the rhizome. Ensure each section has at least a few leaves and roots. Each section can then be planted or attached to décor.
Is this plant safe for shrimp tanks?
Yes, Anubias barteri var. nana is generally safe for shrimp tanks. Its hardy leaves are not usually a food source for shrimp, and it provides good hiding places.
What are the ideal water parameters?
It is highly adaptable, but stable parameters are best. Ideal ranges include a temperature of 72-82°F (22-28°C), pH of 6.0-7.5, and soft to moderately hard water.
How do I attach it to wood or rocks?
You can use cotton thread, fishing line, or a cyanoacrylate-based super glue gel (aquarium safe) to attach the rhizome or roots to your chosen hardscape. The plant will eventually anchor itself.
Troubleshooting
Rhizome rotting
Immediately remove the plant from the substrate. Trim away any black or mushy parts of the rhizome with a sterile blade. Re-attach the healthy portion to décor, ensuring the rhizome is exposed to water flow and not buried.
Algae growth on leaves
Reduce light intensity or duration. Ensure proper water flow within the aquarium. Manually wipe off algae with a soft cloth or toothbrush if possible. Check for nutrient imbalances.
Yellowing leaves
This can indicate a nutrient deficiency or an issue with water parameters. Ensure consistent water changes and consider using a liquid aquarium fertilizer. If only old leaves are yellowing, it might be natural aging.
Plant not attaching well to décor
Use strong fishing line or aquarium-safe super glue gel designed for aquatic use. Ensure the attachment surface is clean and dry before applying glue. Patience is key as roots grow over time.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Extremely hardy and forgiving of varied tank conditions.
- Low maintenance due to slow growth and minimal care needs.
- Resistant to being eaten by fish, making it safe for community tanks.
- Versatile planting options by attaching to hardscape.
- Attractive, dark green foliage that adds a natural look.
Cons
- Very slow growth rate can take a long time to fill out an aquarium.
- Requires careful placement; burying the rhizome can cause it to rot.
- May not thrive in very low light or heavily planted tanks without specific attachment methods.
- Can be more expensive per plant compared to faster-growing species.
Setup, Compatibility & Care
Setup: Anubias barteri var. nana should *not* have its rhizome (the thick, horizontal stem) buried in the substrate. Instead, attach it to aquarium décor such as rocks, driftwood, or substrate using fishing line, cotton thread, or aquarium-safe glue. Ensure the roots are in contact with the attachment surface, but the rhizome remains exposed to the water.
Compatibility: This plant is compatible with most freshwater aquarium fish and invertebrates. Its tough leaves make it resistant to herbivorous fish that might otherwise consume delicate plants. It thrives in a wide range of water parameters, from soft to hard water, and pH levels.
Care: Minimal care is required. Provide low to moderate lighting; excessive direct light can encourage algae growth on its leaves. Regular water changes are beneficial. Avoid fertilizing directly into the substrate, as the plant absorbs nutrients primarily through its leaves. If needed, a liquid aquarium fertilizer can be added to the water column. Pruning is rarely necessary due to its slow growth rate; remove any yellowing or damaged leaves by cutting them at the base of the rhizome.