1. Introduction
Child: Professor, do you know the story of a water nymph in Greek mythology who transformed herself into a plant? I wonder if aquatic plants are as magical and unique as that nymph?
Professor: Ah, you must be referring to the nymph Daphne, who turned herself into a laurel tree. Well, the aquatic plant world is indeed filled with unique and magical species. Today, I’ll introduce you to one in particular – the Anubias barteri var. barteri variegated. It has its own enchanting beauty, and we’ll explore its characteristics, cultivation, precautions, and more.
2. Characteristics
Child: Oh, it sounds so poetic! Its name itself seems like a vivid painting. How would you describe its appearance and characteristics, Professor? Can they change the atmosphere of an aquarium as dramatically as sunflowers do for a garden?
Professor: Just like the beautiful sunflowers you mentioned, the Anubias barteri var. barteri variegated certainly adds a remarkable charm to aquariums. This plant has sturdy, dark green leaves with a hint of yellow, creating a variegated appearance. These leaves, shaped like a heart or a spade, grow to a moderate size of 15-20 cm. It’s a slow-growing plant that can thrive in various positions in an aquarium, from foreground to background, depending on how it is maintained. Since it doesn’t grow very tall, it’s more suited to small or medium-sized aquariums.
3. Cultivation
Child: Wow, a plant this versatile and enchanting must be demanding, like a queen in a Shakespearean tragedy, right? Does it require exceptional care and attention for its cultivation?
Professor: Ha! I like your analogy, but fortunately, the Anubias barteri var. barteri variegated is far from being a demanding queen. This beautiful plant is actually quite beginner-friendly. It is adaptable to various light conditions, from low to medium light. Although it can appreciate carbon dioxide supplementation, it is not mandatory, making it suitable for low-tech aquariums.
The recommended temperature range for this plant is between 22-28°C. It is unfussy about water hardness and pH; it can tolerate a wide range (GH 2-20 dGH, KH 1-18 dKH, pH 5.5-8.5). It can be grown either fully submerged in water or emersed, with its leaves exposed to the air.
As for propagation, you can simply divide the rhizome into multiple sections, ensuring each has a few leaves, and plant them separately. Soon enough, you’ll have more of these charming plants gracing your aquarium.
4. Precautions
Child: So, if this Anubias is not a demanding queen, can it live in harmony with other aquatic creatures as peacefully as a scene from a pastoral poem or a painting of life full of tranquility and love?
Professor: I appreciate your poetic imagination, and I’m happy to say that the Anubias barteri var. barteri variegated is indeed relatively peaceful and compatible with most other aquatic life, be it fish or other plants. However, you should be cautious with plant-eating fish, such as goldfish or larger cichlids, as they might see the Anubias as a snack.
There’s one more precaution – avoid planting the Anubias’ rhizome into the substrate. It can lead to rotting and harm the plant. It’s best to attach it to rocks or driftwood, allowing the roots to anchor themselves.
5. Summary
Child: It seems as if the Anubias barteri var. barteri variegated is a magical being from an enchanted underwater kingdom. I’m glad to have learned about its beauty and how it infuses life and a surreal touch into the aquatic world. Its cultivation seems like an incredible experience!
Professor: Indeed, the Anubias barteri var. barteri variegated is a captivating aquatic plant that adds a touch of elegance and serenity to any aquarium. With its low-maintenance requirements and compatibility with a range of environments, it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists alike. Its enchanting appearance will surely remind you of the magical creatures and worlds from the stories you love. Happy planting!