Anubias barteri var. barteri

Description

Anubias barteri var. barteri, named after Charles Barter, is a popular aquarium plant due to its simplicity. It originates from south-eastern West Africa, where it grows on rocks or fallen tree trunks above the waterline or semi-emersed in rapid-flowing rivers and rivulets. This species can tolerate poor growth conditions, including low lighting (0.25 W/L) without CO2 addition. However, it grows faster with high light and CO2. Water hardness and pH do not affect its growth. A strong current helps prevent spot algae, especially under bright light. High phosphate levels (2 mg/l) reduce spot algae and promote flower formation. The rhizome of this variety tends to grow upright instead of along the substrate. Its growth rate is slow, but it belongs to the fastest-growing Anubias species. Propagation involves cutting off a piece of the rhizome with lateral shoots. This plant is suitable for large aquaria, providing a nice contrast to soft-textured plants like mosses and fine-leaved stem plants. Its leathery leaves make it ideal for accentuating cichlid tanks with green hues. It can be used as an epiphyte or planted in the ground, ensuring the rhizome is above the gravel.