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Anubias Barteri (Anubias barteri)
Photo: Tsunamicarlos, Public domain

Anubias Barteri

Anubias barteri var. barteri

Edited by Ivan F. · Reviewed

Beginner verdict

A sturdy, broad-leaved plant that thrives in low light and shrugs off plant-eating fish. It grows slowly and does not need special substrate or added carbon dioxide, which makes it one of the safest first plants. Attach it to driftwood or stone and leave it alone.

Light
Low
CO2
Not Needed
Growth
Slow
Placement
Attached to Hardscape
Max height
12 in (30 cm)
Temperature
72–79 °F (22–26 °C)
pH
5–8
Needs substrate
No

Anubias Barteri care

How it spreads

Split the rhizome with a clean blade, keeping several leaves on each piece.

Anubias Barteri care mistakes to avoid

  1. Never bury the rhizome, because it will rot.
  2. Keep it out of direct light. Slow leaves collect algae quickly in bright tanks.
  3. Do not expect fast growth, as new leaves appear only slowly.
  4. Attach it securely, because curious fish can knock it loose before the roots grip.

Anubias Barteri setup

Shop in:
LightLow light

Our sources rate Anubias Barteri as a low light plant. These are the lights we chose for a first planted tank.

  • hygger 18W LED Aquarium Light (18-24 inch) US

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for the US. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Maker's details

  • NICREW ClassicLED Plus Aquarium Light US

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for the US. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Maker's details

  • EHEIM classicLED plants 550 mm Spain

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for Spain. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Sold at Kiwoko · Sold at Tiendanimal · Maker's details

  • EHEIM classicLED daylight 550 mm Spain

    Check the voltage: this model is listed for Spain. Mains power is about 120 V in the US and about 230 V in Spain, so do not assume it suits another country.

    Sold at Kiwoko · Sold at Tiendanimal · Maker's details

Why we chose these (Best Light for a Beginner Planted Tank). Nobody here has used or tested them.

SubstrateAttach it to wood or stone, or plant it with the rhizome above the gravel, because a buried rhizome rots.

We are still choosing products for this.

Where to buy Anubias Barteri

We have not found a store that sells Anubias Barteri under its scientific name yet. We add stores as we confirm them.

Live animals and plants travel by courier. Check the store's live-arrival guarantee, and only buy once your tank has cycled (see how to cycle a fish tank).

Some US states restrict certain species. Check our US state aquarium rules table and your state's own rules before you buy.

Anubias Barteri FAQ

How tall does Anubias Barteri grow?

Tropica lists growth to about 30 cm (12 in) in a tank, and it can grow larger over time.

What light does Anubias Barteri need?

Tropica rates its light demand as low. Most standard aquarium lights are enough.

Will fish eat anubias?

Rarely. Its tough, bitter leaves resist most plant-eating fish, which is why it suits fish that destroy softer plants.

How do I attach anubias?

Tie it with thread or use a dab of aquarium-safe super glue on the rhizome. The roots grip the surface over a few weeks.

Anubias Barteri facts and sources

Family
Araceae
Native to
Africa

Sources

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