Anubias barteri nana 'Golden'

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Golden' Care Guide

Common Name: Anubias barteri var. nana 'Golden'
Difficulty Level: Easy
Family: Araceae

General Description:

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Golden' is a striking aquatic plant known for its bright golden-green leaves. This hardy plant is well-suited for both beginners and experienced aquarists, adding a splash of color and elegance to any aquarium setup.

Care Requirements:

1. Tank Size:

• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons (40 liters)
• This plant can thrive in smaller tanks, making it a versatile choice for various aquarium sizes.

2. Lighting Requirements:

• Lighting: Low to Moderate
• Anubias 'Golden' prefers low to moderate lighting conditions. Too much light can lead to algae growth on its leaves, so aim for 1 to 2 watts per gallon or use LED lights with similar intensity.

3. CO2 Requirements:

• CO2: Not necessary
• This plant does not require CO2 supplementation and can thrive well in CO2-free setups. However, providing CO2 can enhance growth and overall health.

4. Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Hardness: 3-8 dKH

5. Substrate:

• Substrate Type: Not critical
• Anubias 'Golden' is not substrate-dependent as it typically attaches to rocks or driftwood. However, if planted in the substrate, ensure the rhizome is above the substrate to prevent rot.

6. Fertilization:

• Nutrients: Low to Moderate
• This plant has low nutrient demands but can benefit from occasional liquid fertilization, especially if grown in low-nutrient environments. Root tabs are not necessary since it absorbs most nutrients from the water column.

7. Watering and Maintenance:

• Water Changes: Weekly water changes of 20-30% are recommended to maintain good water quality.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is required. Remove any damaged or algae-covered leaves to keep the plant healthy.

8. Propagation:

• Propagation Method: Rhizome division
• Anubias 'Golden' propagates by dividing the rhizome. Cut a portion of the rhizome with a few leaves attached and reattach it to a new location in the aquarium.

9. Placement in Tank:

• Placement: Foreground to Midground
• Due to its small size and low height, Anubias 'Golden' is best placed in the foreground to midground of the aquarium. Attach it to rocks or driftwood for the best visual effect.

Summary:

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Golden' is a hardy and visually appealing plant that is easy to care for, making it perfect for aquarists of all levels. It does not require CO2 supplementation and thrives in low to moderate light conditions. Regular water changes and occasional fertilization will keep this plant healthy and vibrant. Its versatility in placement and ease of propagation make it a fantastic addition to any aquarium.

By following this care guide, you can enjoy the unique beauty and low maintenance of Anubias barteri var. nana 'Golden' in your aquatic setup.