Introducing Anubias barteri var. nana, a captivating and popular aquatic plant that will elevate the visual appeal of your aquarium. Also known as Dwarf Anubias, this plant is highly sought after for its lush green foliage, ease of care, and versatility in aquascaping. Originating from West Africa, Anubias barteri var. nana is a small and hardy plant that thrives in both low-light and high-light setups. Let's explore the details of this remarkable plant and discover how to create the perfect environment for its growth.

Appearance:

• Compact Size: Anubias barteri var. nana is a compact plant with small, broad leaves that grow in a rosette pattern. The lush green color adds a vibrant touch to your aquarium.
• Rhizome Structure: The plant has a thick rhizome from which the leaves emerge, making it ideal for attaching to driftwood, rocks, or other decorations.

Water Conditions:

• Temperature: Maintain the water temperature between 72°F and 82°F (22°C to 28°C) for optimal growth of Anubias barteri var. nana.
• pH Level: Aim for a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
• Water Hardness: Provide a moderate water hardness level between 3 to 8 dGH for healthy growth.
• Lighting: Anubias barteri var. nana is adaptable to various lighting conditions and can thrive in both low-light and high-light environments.

Tank Setup:

• Tank Size: Anubias barteri var. nana can be grown in various tank sizes, making it suitable for small to large aquariums.
• Substrate: The plant can be attached to rocks or driftwood, but it can also be planted in the substrate. Use a fine-grained substrate or tie the plant to porous materials for stability.
• Plant Placement: Place Anubias barteri var. nana in the midground or foreground of the aquarium, allowing it to stand out as a focal point.

Care:

• Lighting: Provide moderate to low lighting for Anubias barteri var. nana. It can tolerate shade and may suffer from algae growth under intense lighting.
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Injection: CO2 supplementation is not necessary for this plant, as it can thrive in low-CO2 environments.
• Fertilization: Anubias barteri var. nana is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal fertilization. Supplement with a comprehensive liquid fertilizer or root tabs occasionally to provide essential nutrients.
• Pruning: Trim any decaying or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's overall health and appearance. The rhizome should not be buried in the substrate, as it may rot.

Compatibility:

• Tank Mates: Anubias barteri var. nana is compatible with a wide range of peaceful community fish and other aquatic plants. Avoid species that may uproot or damage the plant.
• Adequate Space: Provide enough space around the plant to allow for proper growth and prevent overcrowding.

Propagation:

• Rhizome Division: Anubias barteri var. nana can be propagated through rhizome division. Carefully separate the rhizome with roots and plant each division in the substrate or attach it to a new surface.