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Datasheet
Aquarium Compatible | yes |
Plant Outdoor | no |
Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
Plant Growth | slow |
Plant Colors | medium green |
Temperature Tolerance | 12°C / 53.60°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 26°C / 78.80°F |
Carbonate Hardness | 0-15 kh |
pH Value | 6-8.5 ph |
Light | low-high |
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) | 5-40mg/lmg/l |
Nitrate (NO3-) | 10-50mg/lmg/l |
Phosphate (PO43-) | 0.1-3mg/lmg/l |
Potassium (K+) | 5-30mg/lmg/l |
Iron (Fe) | 0.01-0.5mg/lmg/l |
General Description
Anubias afzelii, a member of the Araceae family, is one of the larger Anubias species that can reach a maximum height of one meter in its natural habitat in West Africa. The plant features narrow lanceolate to oval-shaped leaves that can grow over 40 cm in length on a rhizome which can reach up to one meter long and 4 cm thick. Despite its size potential in the wild, when cultivated, it tends to remain smaller. The plant thrives in sunny to shaded areas along river and rivulet banks in countries such as Senegal, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Mali.
Aquarium Suitability
Anubias afzelii, with its slow growth habit and robust nature, is highly suitable for aquariums, especially cichlid tanks. While many larger Anubias species are typically used as emersed paludarium plants, A. afzelii can adapt to constant submersion. Its resilience and ability to withstand cichlids make it a valuable addition to aquariums.
Demands and Hardiness
With very easy care requirements, Anubias afzelii is considered a low-maintenance plant for aquariums. It can tolerate a wide range of water conditions, from low to high light levels, temperatures between 22-26°C, and a pH range of 6-8.5. The plant's slow growth rate aligns well with the needs of aquarists looking for hassle-free plant maintenance.
Aquascaping & Usage
Anubias afzelii can be used as a background or midground plant in aquariums, adding a lush green touch to the aquatic environment. Its medium-sized, medium green leaves provide a natural aesthetic, creating a visually pleasing underwater landscape.
Propagation
Propagation of Anubias afzelii can be achieved through rhizome division, splitting, or by cutting off daughter plants. This allows aquarists to expand their plant collection or share the beauty of A. afzelii with other enthusiasts.
Habitat and Distribution
The natural habitats of Anubias afzelii include the riverbanks and rivulets of West Africa, particularly in countries like Senegal, Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Mali. These regions provide the plant with the necessary conditions to thrive and form dense groupings along the water's edge.