If you’re searching for a hardy, low-maintenance, and attractive aquatic plant for your freshwater aquarium, Anubias barteri is one of the best options available. Known for its thick, broad leaves and ability to thrive in a variety of conditions, this plant has become a favorite among aquarists worldwide.

Anubias barteri not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of aquariums but also provides shelter for fish and helps maintain water quality. Its resilience makes it a perfect choice for beginners, while its striking appearance makes it a must-have for advanced aquascapers.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about keeping Anubias barteri in your aquarium—including its origin, characteristics, care requirements, propagation methods, aquascaping tips, and solutions to common problems.

What is Anubias Barteri?

Anubias barteri is a freshwater aquatic plant belonging to the Araceae family. Native to West Africa, particularly Cameroon and Nigeria, it grows in rivers, streams, and marshy areas.

Key Characteristics:

Leaf Size: Broad, dark green leaves measuring 2–6 inches long.
Growth Habit: Grows from a rhizome (horizontal stem).
Height: 12–16 inches tall, making it larger than its cousin, Anubias nana.
Growth Rate: Slow to moderate.
Durability: Hardy, resistant to many common aquarium issues.

Its bold green foliage makes it an excellent midground or background plant in aquascapes.

Why Choose Anubias Barteri for Your Aquarium?

Here’s why aquarists love Anubias barteri:

Hardy Plant: Survives a wide range of water conditions.
Beginner-Friendly: Requires minimal care compared to sensitive plants.
Low-Light Tolerance: Thrives in low-light tanks where many other plants fail.
Versatile Placement: Can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or planted in substrate (with care).
Fish Compatibility: Provides shelter and hiding spots for fish and shrimp.
Aesthetic Value: Adds lush greenery and contrast to any aquascape.

Ideal Tank Setup for Anubias Barteri

Tank Size

Suitable for tanks of 20 gallons or larger.
Its larger leaves make it better suited for medium to big aquariums.

Lighting Requirements

Low to medium light is ideal.
Too much light can encourage algae growth on leaves.
8–10 hours of light per day is sufficient.

Substrate Needs

Does not need substrate to survive.
If planted in substrate, only the roots should be buried; the rhizome must remain exposed.
Best grown attached to hardscape like rocks or driftwood.

Water Parameters

Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C)
pH: 6.0–7.5
Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

Filtration & Flow

Prefers gentle to moderate water flow.
Can adapt to both low-tech and high-tech tanks.

Planting Anubias Barteri in Your Aquarium

There are different ways to incorporate this plant into your aquascape:

1. Attaching to Hardscape

Use thread, fishing line, or aquarium-safe glue to attach the rhizome to wood or stone.
Over time, roots naturally anchor themselves.

2. Substrate Planting

Place only the roots in the substrate, leaving the rhizome exposed to prevent rot.

3. Floating Method

It can survive as a floating plant, though this is less common.

Growth and Propagation of Anubias Barteri

Growth Rate

Slow to moderate, producing a few new leaves monthly.
Growth depends on light, nutrients, and CO₂ levels.

Propagation

Propagated by rhizome division.
Cut the rhizome into sections, ensuring each piece has at least 3–4 leaves.
Replant or reattach new sections to hardscape.

Types of Anubias Barteri

Several varieties of Anubias barteri are popular in the aquarium hobby:

Anubias barteri var. nana: A smaller version, ideal for nano tanks.
Anubias barteri var. coffeefolia: Leaves have a unique ribbed texture.
Anubias barteri var. caladiifolia: Known for larger, heart-shaped leaves.
Anubias barteri var. angustifolia: Narrower leaves compared to the standard form.
Anubias barteri var. glabra: Smooth, elongated leaves.

These varieties give aquascapers flexibility to create diverse layouts.

Benefits of Anubias Barteri in Aquariums

Improves Water Quality – Absorbs nitrates and other toxins.
Provides Shelter – Offers hiding spots for shrimp, fry, and small fish.
Algae Resistance – Thick leaves withstand grazing by algae eaters.
Low Maintenance – Survives in low-tech aquariums without CO₂ injection.
Decor Enhancement – Attaches beautifully to driftwood and rocks.

Tank Mates for Anubias Barteri

Anubias barteri is peaceful and compatible with most freshwater species.

Ideal Companions:

Community fish: Tetras, Rasboras, Guppies, Mollies, Swordtails
Bottom dwellers: Corydoras, Otocinclus, Loaches
Invertebrates: Shrimp, Nerite snails, Mystery snails

Avoid These:

Goldfish and large cichlids may uproot or damage leaves.
Aggressive fish that dig into substrate can disturb its growth.

Common Problems with Anubias Barteri

Even though it’s hardy, aquarists sometimes face issues:

Algae on Leaves
- Broad leaves attract algae under strong lighting.
- Solution: Reduce light, introduce algae eaters, and maintain water quality.
Rhizome Rot
- Happens when the rhizome is buried in substrate.
- Always keep rhizome exposed.
Yellow Leaves
- May indicate nutrient deficiency (especially iron).
- Solution: Use liquid fertilizers or root tabs.
Slow Growth
- Normal for Anubias, but can be boosted with CO₂ and balanced fertilization.

Fertilization & CO₂ Requirements

Fertilizers: Liquid fertilizers rich in micronutrients (iron, potassium) support healthy leaves.
CO₂ Injection: Not necessary, but can accelerate growth.
Caution: Over-fertilization can cause algae blooms.

Anubias Barteri in Aquascaping

This plant is one of the most versatile for aquascaping because of its adaptability and beauty.

Aquascaping Ideas:

Midground Accent: Perfect for filling spaces between tall background plants and carpeting plants.
Hardscape Decoration: Attach to driftwood or rocks to mimic natural riverbeds.
Community Aquascapes: Combines beautifully with Java Fern, Cryptocoryne, and mosses.
Low-Tech Tanks: Ideal for simple, natural-looking aquariums with minimal equipment.

Its bold leaves contrast nicely with delicate plants, creating balance in aquascapes.

Maintenance Tips for Anubias Barteri

Trim damaged or algae-covered leaves from the base.
Perform regular water changes to keep nutrients balanced.
Avoid burying the rhizome in substrate.
Limit direct, intense lighting to reduce algae.
Use gentle water flow to prevent detritus buildup on leaves.

Is Anubias Barteri Beginner-Friendly?

Yes, absolutely! It is one of the best beginner aquarium plants due to its:

Low maintenance requirements
High adaptability
Resistance to common problems
Ability to thrive in low-tech setups

Even if you’re new to aquascaping, Anubias barteri is almost guaranteed to succeed in your aquarium.

Conclusion

A Anubias barteri aquarium combines simplicity, durability, and elegance. This plant’s lush, broad leaves add beauty to any aquascape while providing functional benefits like shelter for fish and natural water filtration. Its ability to grow in low-light tanks, attach to hardscape, and thrive without CO₂ makes it perfect for beginners and advanced hobbyists alike.

Whether you’re building a natural river-style aquarium or a community aquascape, Anubias barteri is a reliable choice that can thrive for years with minimal care.

FAQs About Anubias Barteri Aquarium

Q1. Does Anubias barteri need CO₂?
No, CO₂ injection is not required, though it may boost growth.

Q2. Can Anubias barteri grow in low light?
Yes, it thrives in low to medium light conditions.

Q3. How do I propagate Anubias barteri?
By dividing the rhizome into sections, each with several leaves.

Q4. Why are my Anubias barteri leaves turning yellow?
Likely due to nutrient deficiency, especially iron. Supplement with liquid fertilizers.

Q5. Can Anubias barteri be planted in the substrate?
Yes, but only the roots should be buried. Keep the rhizome exposed.

Q6. How tall does Anubias barteri grow?
It can reach 12–16 inches in height, making it suitable for midground or background placement.

Q7. Is Anubias barteri good for shrimp tanks?
Yes, shrimp love grazing on the biofilm that grows on its leaves.

Q8. How do I prevent algae on Anubias leaves?
Limit lighting, add algae eaters, and maintain proper nutrient balance.

Q9. What fish are compatible with Anubias barteri?
Most community fish, shrimp, and snails are great tank mates. Avoid goldfish and large cichlids.

Q10. How long does Anubias barteri live?
With proper care, Anubias barteri can live for many years, often becoming a permanent fixture in aquariums.

Anubias Barteri Aquarium: Complete Care, Growth & Aquascaping Guide