Anubias barteri var. nana is a small, attractive plant which thrives in all conditions. It originates from Cameroon and will reach 5-10 cm height. The rhizome will be 10-15 cm or more. It grows slowly, and the leaves survive for several years, giving slow-growing algae the chance to become established. The best result is achieved by planting on a stone or tree root. Fishing line can be used to attach the plant until it gains a hold. If planted on the bottom the rhizome must not be covered because it tends to rot. It flowers frequently under water. It is not eaten by herbivorous fish.
The origin of these small growing Echinodorus is unknown. Probably it is caused by mutation in a plant at nursery in Asia. With a height of 5-10 cm, it is ideally suited for the foreground. The light claim is significantly higher than in stem form, including good nutrition and CO2 supply are important prerequisites for optimum growth. In Nanocubes the plant operates in single position very contrast to delicate species. In larger tanks several individual plants should be placed in a group.
Helanthium ‘Quadricostatus’ from South America has characteristic light-green leaves 10-15 cm long which form a good contrast to the darker aquarium plants. It is most beautiful when planted in groups, each roset becoming 15-20 cm wide. In good conditions it produces runners which spread over the bottom. Very light leaves are a sign of a shortage of micro-nutrients. There is some confusion about the name of this plant, and it has been sold as Echinodorus bolivianus var. magdalenensis.
Originating from South America the aquarium plant Lilaeopsis brasiliensis is a beautiful foreground plant. Found in the wild along riverbanks and marshes at altitudes of over 1,000m! Know as the ‘false tennellus’ due to its grassy looks, this plant grows slowly but with regular pruning, this plant will grow into compact grass like carpeting.
Originating from Sri Lanka the Cryptocoryne petchii is a small plant with beautiful, slightly fluted leaf margins. The leaves become dark olive-brown with a violet underside. As with most crypts this plant needs little attention and will happily grow under low lighting.
Ideally place in the aquarium amongst rocks in clusters of two to three. This will create an ‘all-natural’ effect in your aquarium.
It doesn’t get smaller than this! This is probably the smallest Anubias in the world and is a real boon to any underwater landscape. In terms of cultivation and care it is just as robust as the original form, but needs a little more light to produce lovely, compact greenery. This dwarf form can be used in a 10 L Nano Cube or larger. These plants have a most natural appearance when tied to delicate roots or driftwood. Red bogwood is perfectly suited to this purpose. Alternatively, showcase your ‘bonsai’ Anubias on a canvas of decorative rocks.
