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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 | 5-8 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
Spearleaf Anubias, scientifically known as Anubias barteri var. angustifolia, is often mistakenly referred to as "Anubias afzelii," which is a larger plant species. This aquatic plant is native to West Africa, specifically Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Cameroon. It is characterized by its narrow leaves, reaching lengths of 10-30 cm, with straight margins and reddish-brown leaf stalks. The plant belongs to the Araceae family and falls under the order Alismatales. It is a slow-growing species that thrives in medium green coloration both when submerged and emersed.
Aquarium Suitability
Spearleaf Anubias is widely available commercially and is deemed as very easy to care for in aquarium settings. It is compatible with most aquarium environments due to its low to high light requirements. This plant can be utilized as an epiphyte on rocks or driftwood or can be planted in the substrate, serving as a cichlid-proof midground plant. Its winter hardiness makes it unsuitable for outdoor use in colder climates.
Demands and Hardiness
The Spearleaf Anubias has a relatively wide range of acceptable water conditions, with a pH value between 5-8 and a temperature tolerance of 12-30°C. It thrives in carbon dioxide levels ranging from 5-40mg/l and requires moderate levels of nutrients like iron (0.01-0.5mg/l) and potassium (5-30mg/l). The plant is adaptable to varying nitrate, phosphate, and carbonate hardness levels, making it versatile in different aquarium setups.
Aquascaping & Usage
This Anubias variety makes an excellent epiphytic plant for aquascaping, adding a touch of greenery to hardscapes like rocks and driftwood. Its narrow leaves and manageable size allow for versatile placement within the aquarium, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the underwater landscape. Additionally, its suitability as a midground plant contributes to creating visually appealing and functional aquatic environments.
Propagation
Propagation of Anubias barteri var. angustifolia can be achieved through rhizome division, splitting, or cutting off daughter plants. This plant's propagation methods are relatively simple, making it easy for aquarium enthusiasts to expand their Spearleaf Anubias population within their tanks.
Habitat and Distribution
In its natural habitat of West Africa, Spearleaf Anubias thrives in rivers and streams, often attaching itself to rocks or growing along the riverbanks. Its distribution in countries like Guinea, Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Cameroon showcases its adaptability to diverse aquatic environments within the region.