Anubias is one of the most popular and common aquatic plants used in aquariums, terrariums, and paludariums. Its hardy nature and easy-to-care-for requirements make it a great choice for both beginners and experienced aquarists. But can Anubias actually grow floating in the water?
What is Anubias?
Anubias is a genus of aquatic plants that are native to tropical regions in Africa and Asia. It’s sometimes referred to as Anubias barteri, which is a species of the Anubias genus. Anubias plants are known for their hardy nature and easy-to-care-for requirements. They are often used in aquariums, terrariums, and paludariums.
Anubias plants can be grown both in and out of the water. They can be planted in substrate or attached to rocks, driftwood, and other aquascaping decor. Anubias plants are a great choice for many aquarists because they are relatively low-maintenance, and they can tolerate a wide range of water parameters and temperatures.
Can Anubias Floats?
The short answer is yes, Anubias can be grown floating in the water. Anubias plants are known for their hardy nature and can tolerate a wide range of water parameters, so they can survive in both submerged and floating conditions. In fact, some aquarists prefer to keep their Anubias floating, as it can reduce the risk of algae growth on the plant’s leaves.
However, it’s important to note that floating Anubias plants will require more maintenance than plants that are planted in substrate or attached to rocks or driftwood. Floating Anubias plants will need to be trimmed more frequently and may require additional fertilization to ensure that the plant is getting enough nutrients. Floating Anubias plants may also require additional CO2 supplementation, as the water’s surface will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide available to the plant.
Benefits of Floating Anubias
Floating Anubias has several advantages over plants that are planted in substrate or attached to rocks or driftwood. For starters, it is easier to trim and maintain. Floating Anubias plants are also less likely to be affected by algae growth, making them a great choice for aquarists who struggle with algae in their aquariums.
In addition, floating Anubias plants can provide additional oxygen to the aquarium. As the plant’s leaves move through the water, oxygen is released, which can help maintain a healthy aquatic environment. Floating Anubias can also provide additional shade for fish and other aquatic animals, as the leaves will block out some of the light.
How to Grow Floating Anubias
Growing Anubias floating is relatively easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that the plant stays healthy. The first step is to choose a container that is large enough to accommodate the plant. The container should be deep enough so that the plant can be completely submerged. The container should also have holes in the bottom to allow water to flow through.
Once you’ve chosen a container, fill it with water and add a few drops of aquarium fertilizer to the water. Place the Anubias plant in the container and make sure that the roots are completely submerged. Place the container in a spot that gets indirect sunlight and make sure to change the water every few days. Floating Anubias plants will require more frequent trimming than plants that are planted in substrate or attached to rocks or driftwood, so make sure to trim any dead or dying leaves.
Conclusion
Anubias plants can be grown both in and out of the water. They can be planted in substrate or attached to rocks, driftwood, and other aquascaping decor, or they can be grown floating in a container. Floating Anubias can provide additional oxygen and shade to the aquarium, and they are less likely to be affected by algae growth. Growing floating Anubias is relatively easy, but it does require more maintenance than plants that are planted in substrate or attached to rocks or driftwood.