Anubias barteri var. nana 'Gold'

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Gold' is a popular and easy-to-care-for aquatic plant, known for its attractive golden-green leaves. It’s especially well-suited for aquascaping in freshwater aquariums. Here’s a complete care guide:

Basic Overview

• Common Name: Anubias 'Gold'

• Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana 'Gold'

• Type: Rhizomatous aquatic plant

• Growth Rate: Slow

• Height: 5–10 cm (2–4 inches)

• Origin: Cultivar (not naturally occurring)

Tank Requirements

• Tank Size: Any (ideal for nano tanks and larger)

• Lighting: Low to medium

  • Too much light can promote algae growth on the leaves.

• CO₂: Not required, but can enhance growth

• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)

• pH: 6.0–7.5

• Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

Planting Tips

• Do NOT bury the rhizome in substrate—it will rot.

• Attach to hardscape: Use thread, fishing line, or glue to attach to rocks or driftwood.

• Substrate: Not necessary for rooting (roots can absorb nutrients from the water column).

Fertilization

• Water column fertilization: Recommended (liquid fertilizers).

• Root tabs: Not essential unless other plants require them.

• Iron: May help enhance the golden coloration.

✂️ Maintenance

• Trimming: Trim old or damaged leaves with scissors near the rhizome.

• Propagation: Cut a healthy portion of the rhizome with several leaves attached; reattach elsewhere.

• Cleaning: Wipe leaves gently if algae or detritus builds up.

⚠️ Potential Issues

• Algae: Slow growth and broad leaves can attract algae—keep lighting moderate and consider algae-eaters like Amano shrimp or Otocinclus.

• Melting/yellowing: May occur due to poor water quality or sudden parameter changes.

✅ Tank Placement Ideas

• Foreground or midground in larger tanks

• Ideal for low-tech planted tanks or shrimp tanks

• Great for aquascapes where plants are attached to hard surfaces