Anubias barteri

Anubias barteri is a robust, slow-growing aquatic plant from the Araceae family, native to tropical West and Central Africa where it grows along riverbanks, stream margins, and shaded forest floors in humid, warm conditions. In the aquarium it is classified as an epiphyte — it does not require substrate planting and grows best when its rhizome is tied or glued to driftwood, rocks, or decorations, with its roots spreading freely into the water column to anchor the plant and absorb nutrients. The broad, ovate, dark green leaves are thick, leathery, and extremely tough, resisting damage from herbivorous fish, aggressive water flow, and rough handling far better than most aquatic plants. The distinctive horizontal rhizome should never be buried in substrate, as this causes rot and kills the plant. Anubias barteri is one of the most light-tolerant aquatic plants in the hobby — it actively prefers low to moderate light and will suffer algae growth on its slow-growing leaves under intense illumination. In fact, one of its most common challenges is managing green spot algae or brush algae on the older leaves, which accumulate over time due to the plant's slow leaf turnover. Under good conditions it produces white, arum-style flowers both submerged and emersed, which are prized as decorative features. CO2 supplementation is not required, though it slightly accelerates the naturally slow growth rate. Anubias barteri serves as a natural backdrop plant, midground feature, or attachment to driftwood in virtually any freshwater tropical aquarium setup.

Water Parameters Anubias barteri thrives across a broad range: pH 6.0–7.5, temperature 20–28 °C. It adapts to soft or moderately hard water without issue. Extreme temperature swings should be avoided, but within the normal tropical range it is highly forgiving.

Lighting Low to moderate light of 20–60 µmol is ideal. High light promotes algae growth on the slow-growing leaves and does not accelerate plant growth significantly. Positioning the plant under taller stem plants or in shaded areas of the tank mimics its natural habitat.

Planting Method Attach the rhizome to driftwood or rock using aquarium-safe thread, fishing line, or cyanoacrylate gel glue. Never bury the rhizome in substrate — this is the most common cause of Anubias death. Roots will self-attach to rough surfaces over several weeks.

CO2 and Fertilization CO2 injection is unnecessary. A weekly dose of comprehensive liquid fertilizer supports healthy leaf production. Root tabs placed near but not under the rhizome provide additional nutrients.

Algae Management The large, slow-growing leaves are prime targets for green spot algae and black beard algae, especially under high light. Keep light levels moderate, maintain stable water chemistry, and consider adding algae-grazing inhabitants like Siamese Algae Eaters, Otocinclus, or Nerite snails.

Propagation Propagate by cutting the rhizome into sections, ensuring each section retains at least two or three leaves. Allow cut ends to heal for 24 hours before replanting.