Anubias is a genus of freshwater aquatic plants known for its attractive and hardy species. These plants originate from Africa and are often found in tropical riverbanks, making them well-suited for aquariums.
Anubias species are appreciated for their dark green, leathery leaves and slow growth, making them low-maintenance additions to aquariums.
They can be attached to driftwood, rocks, or substrate and are commonly used for aquascaping and creating natural-looking underwater landscapes.
Anubias are rhizome plants, meaning they have horizontal stems (rhizomes) from which leaves and roots grow. They thrive in freshwater environments and are not suited for saltwater tanks.
Recommended Water Parameters
Optimal water temperature: 22°C to 28°C (72°F to 82°F).pH level: They prefer slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically between 6.0 and 7.5.
Water hardness (dGH): Tolerant of a wide range, typically 5 to 20 dGH.
Monitoring and maintaining stable water parameters are important for their health.
Water Type
Anubias is a freshwater plant.Water Changes
Regular water changes help maintain water quality and nutrient balance. A typical water change might involve replacing 10-20% of the aquarium water every 1-2 weeks.Aquarium Lighting
Anubias can thrive in low to moderate lighting conditions. They do not require intense lighting and can suffer from algae growth if exposed to too much light.Duration of daylight
Lighting duration: 6-8 hours a day is often sufficient.Air Pump
An air pump is not necessary for Anubias.Filter
Filtration is preferred but not mandatory.Heater
A heater may be required to maintain the recommended temperature range.Is an additional source of CO2 needed
An additional source of CO2 is generally not needed.Roots
Anubias have rhizomes, which serve as horizontal stems from which leaves and roots emerge.Stems
Anubias do not have true stems or floating leaves.Leaves
They have robust, dark green leaves.Reproduction
Anubias reproduce by side shoots or rhizome division.Growth rates
Growth rates are slow compared to many other aquatic plants.Lifespan
With proper care, Anubias can thrive and persist for several years in an aquarium.Source of food
Anubias does not serve as a primary food source for fish but can provide shelter and microhabitats for small organisms that fish may consume.Interesting Facts
- Anubias is often used in "planted" aquariums for its aesthetic appeal and ease of care.
- The name "Anubias" is derived from the Egyptian god Anubis, known for embalming and the afterlife, due to the hardy nature of these plants.
- Anubias is a favorite among aquarists for its adaptability and suitability for various aquarium setups, from community tanks to biotope aquariums.