Introduction
Anubias is one of the easiest and most reliable aquarium plants for beginners. It grows slowly, tolerates low to moderate light and does not require pressurised CO₂. The most important rule is simple: never bury the thick rhizome in the substrate.
For more beginner information, see our Aquarium Plants: Complete Beginner’s Guide. You can also explore our aquarium plants in Bangalore page.
Why Anubias Is Popular
Anubias has thick, durable leaves and adapts well to many freshwater aquariums. It works in low-tech planted tanks, community aquariums, shrimp tanks and aquascapes. Because it grows slowly, it needs less trimming than many stem plants, although slow growth also means algae can settle on older leaves if lighting is too strong.
How to Plant Anubias
Anubias grows from a horizontal rhizome. Attach the plant to rock or driftwood and keep the rhizome exposed. The roots can touch or grow into the substrate, but the rhizome itself should stay above it. Use thread, fine fishing line or aquarium-safe adhesive until the roots grip the hardscape.
Light Requirements
Low to moderate light is usually enough. Strong light is not necessary and may encourage algae on the leaves. A stable photoperiod and balanced nutrition are more useful than simply increasing brightness.
Does Anubias Need CO₂?
No. Anubias can grow successfully without pressurised CO₂, which is why it is widely used in low-tech planted aquariums. CO₂ can improve growth, but it is optional rather than essential.
Fertilizer and Nutrients
Because Anubias is usually attached to hardscape, it takes much of its nutrition from the water column. In a planted tank with limited nutrients, a balanced liquid fertilizer may help. One option is APT Complete planted aquarium fertilizer. Dose according to the product instructions and the needs of the aquarium.
Common Problems
The most common problems are algae on older leaves, yellowing leaves and rhizome rot. Algae usually points to excessive light or an imbalance in the tank. Yellowing can come from older leaf loss, adjustment or nutrient shortage. Rhizome rot is often linked to burying the rhizome or physical damage.
Propagation
Once the rhizome becomes long enough, divide it with a clean blade. Each new section should have several healthy leaves and roots. Reattach the pieces to rock or driftwood and allow them to establish.
Best Use in Aquascaping
Use Anubias around rocks, driftwood, shaded areas and hardscape edges. Small varieties suit nano tanks and foreground accents, while larger forms work better in the midground.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Anubias grow without CO₂?
Yes. It is one of the most popular low-tech aquarium plants.
Can Anubias be planted in soil?
The roots may enter the soil, but the rhizome should remain exposed.
Why is algae growing on Anubias?
Because the plant grows slowly, leaves stay exposed for a long time. Excess light and unstable tank conditions can make algae more noticeable.
Is Anubias good for beginners?
Yes. It is hardy, low-maintenance and forgiving.
Important Articles
Final Thoughts
Anubias is a strong beginner choice because it is hardy, slow growing and easy to place on hardscape. Keep the rhizome exposed, avoid excessive light and give it time to establish.
To explore suitable live plants for your setup, visit our Aquarium Plants in Bangalore page. If you need help choosing plants, lighting or fertilizer, contact Sri Maha Aquarium.