Anubias (Assorted)

About Anubias

Anubias is one of the most popular and reliable aquarium plant groups, known for its tough green leaves, slow growth, and exceptional adaptability. These hardy plants are ideal for beginners and experienced aquascapers alike and can thrive in low-tech aquariums without CO₂ injection.

Anubias is a rhizome plant, meaning it should generally be attached to rocks, driftwood, or other hardscape rather than buried completely in the substrate. The roots can grow around and into the substrate while the rhizome remains exposed.

There are numerous Anubias varieties, ranging from larger species such as Anubias barteri to compact forms such as Anubias Nana and Anubias Nana Petite. Their broad, durable leaves provide excellent contrast against fine-leaved plants and carpeting species.

They perform well under low to moderate lighting. Strong lighting is generally unnecessary and can encourage algae growth on the slow-growing leaves. They are excellent plants for shrimp aquariums because their leaves provide excellent surfaces for grazing biofilm.

Anubias can be attached to driftwood or rocks using aquarium-safe glue, fishing line, or simply wedged securely into hardscape. Once established, they require very little maintenance.

Hardy, versatile, and incredibly forgiving, Anubias is an excellent choice for almost any freshwater aquarium.

Quick Care Guide

Scientific Name: Anubias spp.
Common Name: Anubias
Origin: Tropical Africa
Plant Type: Rhizome Plant
Growth Rate: Slow
Difficulty: Beginner
Lighting: Low to Moderate
CO₂ Required: No
Temperature: 20–28°C
pH: 6.0–8.0
Water Hardness: Soft to Hard
Placement: Foreground to Background / Hardscape
Suitable For: Community aquariums, shrimp tanks, nano aquariums, low-tech tanks, and planted aquascapes

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Anubias require CO₂?

No. Anubias is one of the best plants for low-tech aquariums and can grow successfully without CO₂.

Can Anubias be planted in substrate?

The roots can be planted or allowed to grow into the substrate, but the rhizome must remain above the substrate. Burying the rhizome can cause it to rot.

Can Anubias grow on driftwood?

Yes. Attaching Anubias to driftwood and rocks is one of the most popular ways to grow it.

Is Anubias suitable for shrimp tanks?

Absolutely. Its slow-growing leaves provide excellent surfaces for biofilm and are ideal for shrimp grazing.

How fast does Anubias grow?

Anubias is naturally slow growing. New leaves can take several weeks to develop, but this also means it requires very little pruning or maintenance.

Common Mistakes

Burying the rhizome
Keep the rhizome completely exposed. Only the roots should be buried.

Using excessive lighting
Anubias doesn't require strong light, and excessive lighting can encourage algae growth.

Placing it directly under intense light
Shaded areas around driftwood and taller plants can help reduce algae accumulation.

Expecting rapid growth
Anubias grows slowly. Avoid constantly moving or disturbing established plants.

Ignoring algae buildup
Slow-growing leaves can accumulate algae. Good water quality, appropriate lighting, and algae-grazing livestock can help keep the leaves clean.