Anubias barteri var. nana 'Pangolino'

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Pangolino' represents the extreme miniature end of the Anubias spectrum, producing leaves of only 5–10 mm that are among the smallest of any commonly available aquarium plant. Its scale makes it uniquely suited to pico aquariums, planted shrimp tanks, and ultra-detailed iwagumi layouts where every square centimetre matters. The name references the pangolin, reflecting the tiny, tightly scaled appearance of its rhizome.

Despite its minute proportions, 'Pangolino' is no more difficult to care for than any other Anubias — it tolerates low light, wide water parameter ranges, and infrequent fertilisation. Its extremely slow growth rate means a single plant can remain as a defined accent for months without requiring pruning or readjustment.

It is best attached to very small stones, fine gravel pieces, or thin twigs using superglue gel. Shrimp, particularly Caridina and Neocaridina species, are ideal tankmates that will graze algae from the leaves without disturbing the plant.

Light: low light is ideal; higher light may encourage algae faster than the slow-growing plant can outcompete. CO2: not required; this cultivar grows successfully without supplemental CO2. Fertilisation: very light liquid fertiliser dosing sufficient; avoid excess nutrients that encourage algae in slow-growth tanks. Placement: glue to tiny stones, thin twigs, or small wood fragments in the foreground of nano and pico tanks. Propagation: carefully divide the tiny rhizome with a sharp blade; each section needs at least 2 leaves to re-establish.