How To Care For Anubias Nangi: A Complete Guide
Anubias Nangi is a striking aquatic plant that has captivated aquarists for its unique appearance, hardiness, and ease of care. With its broad, dark green leaves and slow-growing nature, it’s an ideal addition to a variety of aquarium setups, whether you're creating a natural-style aquascape or just looking to add some greenery to your tank. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about how to care for Anubias Nangi, from its origins to how to maintain optimal conditions for growth.
By the end of this article, you'll be fully equipped with the knowledge and tips you need to keep your Anubias Nangi thriving in your aquarium for years to come.
What is Anubias Nangi?
Anubias Nangi is a relatively new cultivar of the Anubias genus, which belongs to the Araceae family. Native to West Africa, the Anubias species is widely known for its resilience and ability to thrive in a range of water conditions. Unlike many other aquatic plants, Anubias species are known for their slow growth and hardiness, making them ideal for beginner and advanced aquarists alike.
Anubias Nangi is often admired for its long, slender leaves, which are typically a deep dark green and have a velvety texture. These plants can grow to 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) tall and are commonly used as midground plants in aquariums. The plant’s creeping rhizome makes it versatile in placement; it can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or placed in the substrate.
Ideal Water Conditions for Anubias Nangi
Anubias Nangi is a hardy plant that can adapt to a wide range of water conditions, but for optimal growth, it’s important to create an environment that mimics its native habitat in West Africa. Here’s a breakdown of the key water parameters:
1. Water Temperature
Anubias Nangi thrives in tropical water conditions, with a temperature range of 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C). The plant is highly adaptable, but maintaining this range will encourage steady growth and help prevent stress. Temperatures outside of this range can slow down its growth or lead to other health issues.
2. pH Level
Anubias Nangi prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH range, ideally between 6.5 to 7.5. Although it can tolerate a slightly acidic environment, keeping the pH within this range will ensure the plant’s nutrients are absorbed efficiently, promoting better growth.
3. Water Hardness
Anubias Nangi thrives in soft to moderately hard water (3-10 dGH). While it can survive in slightly harder water, maintaining a range of 3-10 dGH will provide the best conditions for healthy root development and overall vitality.
4. Water Flow
Anubias Nangi is a plant that appreciates low to moderate water flow. Strong currents may damage its delicate leaves and disrupt the rhizome. A gentle flow helps the plant settle and spread its roots effectively. Make sure to avoid placing it in areas with strong filter currents to prevent stress.
Lighting Requirements for Anubias Nangi
Anubias Nangi does not require high-intensity lighting, making it an excellent choice for low-tech aquariums. The plant can grow under a range of light conditions, but optimal lighting will encourage better growth and a healthier plant.
1. Light Intensity
Anubias Nangi prefers low to moderate light levels. Bright lighting can encourage algae growth, while too little light may slow down the plant's growth. A light intensity of around 0.5 to 1.5 watts per gallon is ideal, and it should be sufficient to keep the plant healthy and vibrant.
2. Light Duration
Provide 8-10 hours of light per day to maintain the plant’s natural growth cycle. Consistent light exposure will encourage photosynthesis, but too much light or extended photoperiods may cause algae problems. A timer can be a useful tool to ensure your Anubias Nangi gets a consistent amount of light each day.
3. Light Spectrum
Anubias Nangi benefits from full-spectrum light with a color temperature of about 6,500K. This light spectrum mimics natural sunlight, supporting healthy growth and enhancing the plant’s deep green coloration. High-light setups are not necessary and may lead to excessive algae growth.
Planting Anubias Nangi in Your Aquarium
Anubias Nangi is not a rooted plant, so it doesn’t require soil to thrive. It is a rhizome-based plant, meaning it should not be buried in the substrate. The plant thrives when the rhizome is left exposed, allowing it to send out roots that anchor to surfaces. Here’s how to properly plant Anubias Nangi:
1. Rhizome Positioning
The rhizome of Anubias Nangi should not be buried in the substrate, as this can cause the plant to rot. Instead, place the rhizome on top of the substrate or attach it to a surface, such as rocks, driftwood, or decorative ornaments. Ensure that only the roots are in contact with the substrate, while the rhizome should remain exposed.
2. Attaching to Rocks or Driftwood
If you’re placing your Anubias Nangi on rocks or driftwood, you can use aquarium-safe glue or fishing line to secure the rhizome in place. Over time, the plant’s roots will naturally anchor themselves, and the plant will settle into its new location.
3. Spacing
When planting multiple Anubias Nangi plants, it’s important to space them out at least 2-4 inches apart. This allows for proper light distribution and room for growth. Anubias Nangi grows slowly, so you won’t have to worry about overcrowding as quickly as with faster-growing plants.
Fertilization and Nutrient Requirements
Although Anubias Nangi is a slow-growing plant, providing the right nutrients can help it flourish. Like many other aquatic plants, Anubias Nangi is a root feeder, meaning it absorbs most of its nutrients from the substrate.
1. Liquid Fertilizers
Anubias Nangi will benefit from liquid fertilizers that are rich in essential macro and micronutrients, including nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and iron. A balanced liquid fertilizer is a good option, especially for plants in low-tech aquariums that rely on water column fertilization.
2. Root Tabs
Since Anubias Nangi thrives in the substrate, placing root tabs near the plant’s base will provide nutrients directly to its roots. Root tabs are ideal for slow-growing plants like Anubias because they release nutrients gradually over time.
3. CO2 Injection
Anubias Nangi does not require CO2 supplementation and can grow in low-tech aquariums without additional CO2. However, if you’re running a high-tech aquarium with bright lights, adding CO2 can boost growth rates and encourage healthier foliage. In general, though, CO2 is not essential for Anubias Nangi’s care.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting
While Anubias Nangi is a hardy plant, you may encounter a few challenges along the way. Here are some common issues and how to solve them:
1. Algae Growth
Anubias Nangi can attract algae, especially in aquariums with bright lights and high nutrients. To combat algae, reduce light intensity and ensure that the plant isn’t exposed to too many nutrients. Amano shrimp, Nerite snails, or Otocinclus catfish can help keep algae in check.
2. Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves can be a sign of nutrient deficiency, particularly iron or nitrogen. Make sure your fertilization regime includes both macro and micronutrients, and consider adding iron-based fertilizers to address any deficiencies.
3. Rotting Rhizome
If the rhizome of your Anubias Nangi starts to rot, it may be due to poor water conditions or buried rhizomes. Make sure the rhizome is not buried, and check that the water parameters are stable. If the rhizome is rotting, cut off the affected part of the plant and allow the healthy portions to grow again.
Companion Plants and Tank Mates for Anubias Nangi
Anubias Nangi pairs well with a variety of other aquatic plants, especially slow-growing and low-light plants. Some excellent companion plants include:
- Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus)
- Cryptocoryne species
- Java Moss (Taxiphyllum barbieri)
- Amazon Sword (Echinodorus bleheri)
Additionally, peaceful tank mates like Tetras, Guppies, and Corydoras catfish are excellent choices for aquariums with Anubias Nangi, as they won’t disturb the plant.
Conclusion
Anubias Nangi is a beautiful and low-maintenance aquarium plant that can thrive in a wide range of conditions. With its striking green leaves, slow-growing nature, and adaptability, it’s an ideal choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists. By providing the right lighting, water conditions, and nutrients, you can enjoy this elegant plant in your aquarium for many years.
Follow the tips outlined in this complete guide, and Anubias Nangi will soon become a highlight of your aquascaping setup. Whether you're looking to enhance your tank’s appearance or simply create a more natural habitat for your aquatic pets, Anubias Nangi is sure to add beauty and serenity to your aquarium. Happy aquascaping!
