Anubias Nana Petite

Introduction

Anubias Nana Petite is a popular, small-sized aquatic plant known for its compact and sturdy growth. Its dark green leaves and slow-growing nature make it a favorite among aquascapers, especially for those who want a low-maintenance but visually appealing plant for their tanks.

Origin

Anubias Nana Petite is a cultivated variety of Anubias barteri var. nana, which is native to the tropical regions of West Africa. In the wild, it thrives in shaded areas of rivers and streams, making it well-suited to low-light environments in aquariums.

Scientific Name

The scientific name of this plant is Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Petite’.

Lighting Requirements

Anubias Nana Petite requires low to moderate lighting. It can thrive under 6 to 10 hours of light per day, making it a great choice for low-tech setups. Too much light can lead to algae growth on its leaves, so keeping it in shaded areas or with subdued lighting is ideal.

Care Level

On a scale of 1 to 10, Anubias Nana Petite has a care level of 2, making it extremely easy to care for. It’s an ideal plant for both beginners and experienced aquarists due to its hardiness and low maintenance needs.

Preferred Water Parameters

• Temperature: 68°F to 82°F (20°C to 28°C)
• pH Level: 6.0 to 7.5
• GH Level (General Hardness): 3 to 8 dGH
• KH Level (Carbonate Hardness): 2 to 5 dKH

Placement

Anubias Nana Petite is best used as a foreground or midground plant. It can also be attached to rocks or driftwood, where it grows steadily without the need to be planted in the substrate. Its small size and compact growth make it perfect for nano tanks or as a detailed accent in larger aquariums.

Growth Rate

The growth rate of Anubias Nana Petite is slow. While this means less maintenance in terms of trimming, it also takes time to spread or fill an area, which makes it ideal for long-term aquascapes.

CO2 and Fertilizer

While CO2 supplementation is not necessary, adding CO2 can enhance growth. It benefits from occasional liquid fertilization, especially if grown in nutrient-poor conditions, though it’s not heavily nutrient-dependent.

Potential Problems

This plant is generally trouble-free but may face:

• Algae Growth: Its slow growth and broad leaves can become a target for algae, especially in tanks with high light and poor water flow.
• Root Rot: If planted too deeply in the substrate, the rhizome may rot. It’s best to attach it to rocks or driftwood.

Compatible Fishes

Anubias Nana Petite works well with peaceful fish species, including:

• Betta Fish
• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Shrimp (e.g., Cherry Shrimp, Amano Shrimp)
• Snails (e.g., Nerite Snails)

Other Suitable Plants

Anubias Nana Petite can be paired with a variety of plants for a balanced aquascape:

• Java Fern for contrasting textures and height.
• Bucephalandra species for their similar low-light requirements and unique appearance.
• Cryptocoryne species for added variety in foliage shapes and colors.
• Mosses (e.g., Java Moss, Weeping Moss) for additional texture.

Tropical or Cold Water?

Anubias Nana Petite thrives in tropical water conditions, with a stable temperature range between 68°F and 82°F (20°C to 28°C).

What Fish Can Eat It?

Most fish do not eat Anubias Nana Petite, making it a safe choice for tanks with plant-nibbling species.

A Fun Fact

Anubias Nana Petite is one of the smallest varieties of Anubias available, making it perfect for nano aquariums or intricate aquascaping designs. Its ability to attach to hardscape elements like rocks and driftwood allows for creative and unique aquascapes.