Introduction
Anubias barteri is a very popular and hardy aquarium plant that has been used in aquariums since the 1800s. It is an excellent beginner plant for the hobbyist who wants to get into the world of aquatic plants. Anubias barteri is a slow-growing species and will do well in almost any aquarium environment, from low to high lighting, from low to high pH and from low to high hardness.
Anubias barteri is well known for its ease of cultivation and its ability to survive and thrive in a variety of water conditions. It is a great plant for the beginner aquarist and is an excellent choice for aquariums with a variety of fish species. The plant is relatively low maintenance and can be grown in a variety of ways.
Choosing The Right Substrate
When it comes to growing Anubias barteri, the substrate is the foundation of a successful aquarium. The substrate is the material that supports the roots of the plant and provides nutrients for plant growth. The best substrate for Anubias barteri is a clay-based substrate such as Aquarium Soil. This type of substrate is ideal for Anubias barteri as it provides a stable environment for the roots to grow in and it also contains essential minerals and nutrients that the plant needs to thrive.
When selecting a substrate for Anubias barteri, it is important to make sure that it is not too coarse or too fine. A coarse substrate can inhibit root growth and can make it difficult for the plant to absorb nutrients. A fine substrate can trap too much debris and cause excess nutrients to be released into the water column.
Choosing The Right Lighting
Lighting is an important factor for Anubias barteri growth and health. Anubias barteri does best in low to moderate light, and can even tolerate some high light if the aquarium is well maintained. Anubias barteri can be grown in both planted and non-planted aquariums. However, in non-planted aquariums, the light should be kept low to prevent algae growth.
The best lighting for Anubias barteri is LED lighting, as it is more energy efficient than traditional lighting and produces less heat. LED lighting also provides a more natural light that is better suited to the plant’s needs.
Water Parameters
Anubias barteri can thrive in a wide range of water parameters. The ideal conditions for Anubias barteri are a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, a temperature range of 72-82°F and a hardness range of 5-10 dKH.
It is important to make sure that the water parameters for Anubias barteri are stable and not fluctuating on a daily basis. This is important for the health of the plant and the health of the aquarium as a whole.
Fertilization
Anubias barteri is a slow-growing plant and does not require a lot of fertilizer. However, it is important to provide the plant with the essential nutrients it needs to thrive. The best way to do this is to use liquid fertilizer that is specifically designed for aquarium plants.
It is important to make sure that the liquid fertilizer is free of copper, as copper can be toxic to Anubias barteri. The fertilizer should be added to the aquarium every two weeks in order to provide the plant with the nutrients it needs to grow and thrive.
Pruning
Anubias barteri is a slow-growing plant and does not require frequent pruning. However, if the plant is growing too large or if the leaves are becoming too long or thin, it may be necessary to prune the plant. Pruning should be done carefully, as the plant can be damaged easily.
When pruning Anubias barteri, it is important to make sure that only the affected leaves are removed. If more than one leaf is removed, it can cause the plant to become misshapen and can also damage the roots.
Conclusion
Anubias barteri is a hardy and very forgiving species of aquarium plant that is perfect for the beginner aquarist. It is a slow-growing species and is relatively low-maintenance, making it an ideal plant for both planted and non-planted aquariums. Anubias barteri can be grown in a variety of ways, from using the right substrate to providing the right lighting and water parameters. It is important to make sure that the plant is given the proper care and attention it needs to thrive and grow.