More info
Datasheet
| Aquarium Compatible | yes |
| Plant Outdoor | no |
| Plant Emersed Growth | yes |
| Plant Growth | slow |
| Plant Colors | light green, medium green, dark 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 | 0-21 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
Anubias barteri var. nana, belonging to the Araceae family, is a slow-growing aquatic plant that originates from Cameroun, commonly found in shallow zones of forest rivers with a strong current. This dwarf variety is nearly indestructible in aquariums and is often referred to as a "growing plastic plant" due to its robust nature. The plant features a creeping rhizome from which long-lasting leaves sprout and is available commercially with Tropica being the first to cultivate it in 1970.
Aquarium Suitability
Anubias barteri var. nana is suitable for aquariums and is widely available in Europe, Asia, and the US. It is categorized as a very easy plant to care for and is commonly used in nano tanks and small aquaria to accentuate the middleground or in the foreground of larger tanks.
Demands and Hardiness
This plant can thrive under a wide range of light intensities, from very low to high levels, and does not require CO2 supplementation to grow. However, providing carbon dioxide fertilization may benefit its growth. It is essential to maintain high phosphate levels (1.5-2 mg/l) for inducing flowering and to combat spot algae under strong lighting conditions. Anubias barteri var. nana can tolerate different water conditions, temperatures ranging from 22-26°C, and CO2 levels between 5-40mg/l.
Aquascaping & Usage
This species is commonly utilized as an epiphyte plant, often attached to driftwood or rocks using a nylon thread. It is also known to be cichlid-proof, making it suitable for tanks with these fish. When planting, it is crucial to avoid burying the rhizome in substrate to prevent rotting. Anubias barteri var. nana works well as a midground or foreground plant and can thrive in groups.
Propagation
Propagation of Anubias barteri var. nana is relatively simple and can be achieved by cutting the rhizome into multiple pieces, depending on the plant's size. Splitting or cutting off daughter plants are effective methods for propagating this species.
Habitat and Distribution
This plant species primarily inhabits shallow areas of forest rivers with a strong current in Cameroun. However, specific information about these locations is scarce. It has become one of the most prevalent aquarium plants in various regions since its introduction into the hobby by Tropica in 1970. Anubias barteri var. nana is not suitable for outdoor use in colder climates due to its winter hardiness limitations.