How To Care For Anubias Barteri: A Complete Guide
Anubias Barteri is a popular and versatile aquatic plant commonly found in aquariums due to its hardiness, low-maintenance requirements, and attractive appearance. It is a slow-growing plant with broad, dark green leaves that make it an ideal addition to any aquarium, whether you are a beginner or an experienced aquarist. Anubias Barteri is commonly used in low-tech setups, low-light environments, and aquascaping projects due to its adaptability.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about Anubias Barteri, including its natural habitat, ideal water conditions, lighting requirements, substrate preferences, and care tips to keep it thriving in your aquarium. Whether you are adding it to a planted tank, a community aquarium, or a more specialized setup, this guide will help you ensure your Anubias Barteri stays healthy and beautiful.
What is Anubias Barteri?
Anubias Barteri is a species of the Anubias genus, a group of plants widely known for their resilience and ease of care. Native to West and Central Africa, Anubias Barteri can be found growing in slow-moving rivers, swamps, and waterfalls in the wild. It typically grows in shallow waters where it is partially submerged, often attached to rocks or tree roots.
The plant is characterized by its dark green, leathery leaves, which can vary in size depending on the variety. Its compact growth form and ability to tolerate various water conditions make it suitable for aquariums of all sizes. One of the main reasons Anubias Barteri is so popular is its unique growth habit—it grows by sending out runners, which produce new plantlets, allowing it to spread across the substrate, rocks, or decorations in your tank.
Why Choose Anubias Barteri?
There are several reasons why Anubias Barteri is a fantastic addition to any aquarium:
1. Hardiness
Anubias Barteri is one of the hardiest aquarium plants available. It can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, making it a perfect choice for beginner aquarists. Unlike many other aquatic plants, it is not easily affected by fluctuations in water temperature, pH, or hardness. Additionally, it is highly resistant to most common aquarium diseases and pests.
2. Low Maintenance
This plant thrives in low to moderate lighting and does not require CO2 injection, making it an ideal plant for low-tech aquariums. It grows slowly, so it doesn’t require frequent pruning or maintenance. With proper care, it can live for years, providing a steady source of greenery in your tank.
3. Versatility
Anubias Barteri is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of aquascaping styles. Whether you want to create a natural aquascape, a rock-based setup, or a Dutch-style tank, this plant is a great addition. It can be planted in the substrate, attached to rocks, or driftwood, offering multiple placement options.
4. Fish and Shrimp Friendly
Anubias Barteri is non-toxic to fish, shrimp, and other aquatic creatures. In fact, the plant's broad leaves make it an ideal hiding spot for shy fish and shrimp. The plant can also act as a biofilm collector, providing a food source for smaller fish and invertebrates.
Water Conditions for Anubias Barteri
Anubias Barteri is incredibly adaptable to various water conditions. However, to ensure optimal growth and health, it’s important to mimic the conditions it would experience in its natural habitat. Here are the ideal water parameters for Anubias Barteri:
1. Temperature
Anubias Barteri thrives in tropical temperatures ranging from 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C). It can tolerate a slight fluctuation in temperature, but maintaining a stable environment within this range will help the plant stay healthy.
2. pH Level
The ideal pH range for Anubias Barteri is between 6.0 and 7.5. It can tolerate slightly more acidic or alkaline conditions, but a pH level within this range will ensure the plant's leaves remain vibrant and the roots can absorb nutrients effectively.
3. Water Hardness
Anubias Barteri prefers soft to moderately hard water with a dGH (general hardness) of 2 to 10 dGH. This plant can adapt to different water hardness levels, but softer water is ideal for its growth.
4. Water Flow
In its natural environment, Anubias Barteri grows in slow-moving waters. It doesn’t thrive in strong currents. A gentle water flow is ideal, allowing the plant to settle without the risk of damage to its leaves. A filter with gentle circulation or an air stone can help maintain the right water movement.
Lighting Requirements for Anubias Barteri
One of the most appealing features of Anubias Barteri is its tolerance to low light conditions. Unlike many aquarium plants that require high-intensity lighting, Anubias Barteri is able to grow in low to moderate light environments, making it perfect for low-tech tanks or aquariums without CO2 supplementation.
1. Light Intensity
Anubias Barteri does best under low to moderate light levels. 1 to 2 watts per gallon is usually sufficient for its needs. High-intensity light can promote the growth of algae on its leaves, which can hinder the plant’s aesthetic appeal. If you're growing it in a low-tech aquarium, you can opt for fluorescent or LED lighting that mimics natural daylight.
2. Light Duration
It is essential to provide Anubias Barteri with 8 to 10 hours of light per day. This helps promote healthy photosynthesis, but it's important to avoid overexposure to light, as this can lead to algae buildup on the plant’s leaves.
3. Light Type
Full-spectrum lighting, which provides a balance of all light wavelengths, is best for Anubias Barteri. It will ensure that the plant receives the energy needed for photosynthesis. LED lights that emit full-spectrum light are a great choice, as they are energy-efficient and provide consistent lighting.
Substrate and Planting Anubias Barteri
Anubias Barteri is unique in that it does not need to be planted in the substrate for it to thrive. It grows well when attached to rocks, driftwood, or decorative objects, making it a great choice for aquascaping. However, it can also be planted in nutrient-rich substrate if desired.
1. Substrate Type
If you wish to plant Anubias Barteri in the substrate, use a nutrient-rich substrate or aquarium soil that will provide it with the nutrients it needs for root development. However, Anubias Barteri has relatively shallow roots, so the substrate doesn’t need to be deep. You can also plant it in gravel or sand if using root tabs to supplement its nutrient intake.
2. Attachment to Rocks or Driftwood
To attach Anubias Barteri to rocks or driftwood:
- Gently remove the plant from its pot and clean the roots.
- Use fishing thread or superglue gel to attach the rhizome (the thick stem) to a rock or driftwood.
- Avoid burying the rhizome in the substrate, as this can cause it to rot. Only the roots should be in contact with the substrate.
3. Spacing
When planting multiple Anubias Barteri plants, space them 4-6 inches apart to allow for adequate growth. Since the plant grows slowly, this spacing allows it to form dense clumps without overcrowding.
Fertilization for Anubias Barteri
Anubias Barteri is a low-maintenance plant that doesn't require heavy fertilization. However, to ensure it remains healthy and vibrant, it will benefit from regular nutrient supplementation.
1. Liquid Fertilizers
Anubias Barteri will thrive with a balanced liquid fertilizer that contains both macro and micronutrients. Apply liquid fertilizer to your aquarium water every 1-2 weeks, following the instructions on the bottle. Be sure to avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nutrients can lead to algae growth.
2. Root Tabs
If you have planted Anubias Barteri in a nutrient-poor substrate like gravel, use root tabs to supplement the plant’s nutrient intake. These slow-release fertilizers are placed near the plant’s roots and provide essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
3. CO2 Supplementation
Anubias Barteri can grow without CO2 supplementation, making it suitable for low-tech tanks. However, if you're running a high-tech tank with CO2 injection, it will promote faster growth and help the plant achieve fuller, greener foliage.
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While Anubias Barteri is a hardy and low-maintenance plant, it may face a few challenges if its needs aren’t met. Here are some common problems and how to address them:
1. Algae Growth
If algae begins to accumulate on the plant’s leaves, it is usually a sign of too much light or nutrient imbalance.
- Solution: Reduce light intensity or duration. You can also gently wipe the algae off with a soft sponge or use algae-eating fish or shrimp to help control the problem.
2. Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves are often caused by nutrient deficiencies, particularly a lack of nitrogen or iron.
- Solution: Add liquid fertilizers or root tabs to ensure the plant gets the nutrients it needs.
3. Rotting Rhizome
If the rhizome is buried in the substrate, it may begin to rot, leading to wilting or dieback of the plant.
- Solution: Ensure the rhizome is not buried in the substrate and only the roots come into contact with the substrate.
Conclusion
Anubias Barteri is an outstanding choice for both beginner and experienced aquarium enthusiasts. Its low-maintenance nature, attractive dark green foliage, and versatility make it an ideal plant for almost any aquarium setup. Whether you're looking to create a natural aquascape, a planted tank, or a low-tech environment, Anubias Barteri will thrive in a range of conditions, providing lasting beauty and structure to your aquarium. By following the care tips and advice provided in this guide, you can ensure that your Anubias Barteri grows strong, healthy, and vibrant for years to come.
