Anubias Barteri

Anubias Barteri - Broad-leaved Spearleaf for Cichlid Aquariums

The Anubias Barteri is a robust aquarium plant with characteristic broad-leaved, thick, and sturdy leaves. This vigorous plant is especially suited for aquariums with large, active fish like cichlids, as its leaves are resistant to herbivorous and boisterous fish. Perfect for both beginners and experienced aquascapers.

Why choose the Anubias Barteri?

• Extremely robust: Strong leaves that can withstand cichlids and other large fish
• Versatile: Mount on wood or stone, or plant in the middle and back zone
• Easy to maintain: Requires little light, ideal for low-tech aquariums
• Wide temperature tolerance: Thrives at 15-30°C, highly adaptable
• Natural water filter: Helps absorb excess nutrients and reduces algae problems
• Shade-loving: Perfect for places where other plants struggle to grow

Care and Placement

The Anubias barteri is a rhizome plant, meaning the rootstock (rhizome) should not be buried under sand or gravel to prevent rot. Attach the plant to decorative materials such as wood or stone, or plant it so that the rhizome remains above the substrate. Over time, the plant will naturally attach itself with its roots.

Lighting tip: Bright light in your aquarium will encourage more compact leaf growth and faster new growth. However, the plant also thrives in low light.

Technical Specifications

• Placement: Center & back zone | on wood and/or stone
• Maximum height: 40 cm
• Leaf type: Broad-leaved, thick and stiff
• Temperature: 15-30°C
• pH: 5.0-8.0
• KH: 0-15
• CO2: 5-40 mg/l (not required, but promotes growth)
• Light requirements: Little
• Origin: Africa
• Family: Araceae
• Type: Rhizome plant
• Other name: Broad-leaved Spearleaf
• Propagation: By division of the rhizome

Ideal for cichlid aquariums

The Anubias barteri is one of the few plants that can withstand the powerful jaws of cichlids. Its thick, leathery leaves are not easily damaged, making it perfect for African cichlid aquariums, Malawi aquariums, or other setups with herbivorous fish.

Combination tips

Combine Anubias Barteri with other robust plants like Anubias Nana in the front area for a layered effect. It also complements Java moss on the same decorative material perfectly. For a natural look, combine the plant with rocks and driftwood in a biotope aquarium.