1. Introduction
Child: Professor, I’ve been reading about the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, and it made me ponder how aquatic plants form their own enchanted gardens underwater. Is there such a thing as the “Hanging Gardens” of the aquarium world?
Professor: How poetic, dear child! Just as the Hanging Gardens of Babylon created a beautiful, cascading oasis, aquatic plants like Anubias barteri var. barteri unleash their charm underwater. Allow me to guide you through the marvelous world of this unique aquatic plant.
2. Characteristics
Child: The namesake of Anubias, Anubis, is the ancient Egyptian god of the afterlife. Is this plant as mysterious and powerful as Anubis himself?
Professor: You have quite a flair for mythology! The Anubias barteri var. barteri shares its dark, green, and almost cryptic charm with the god Anubis. Its leaves are wide, thick, and heart-shaped, making it quite a sight to behold in an aquarium. The plant grows slowly but maintains a robust appearance, suitable for all aquarium sizes. With its rhizome creeping along the substrate, it can grow into an impressive underwater landscape centerpiece.
3. Cultivation
Child: In Greek mythology, King Sisyphus was burdened with the impossible task of rolling a boulder up a hill for eternity. Is the cultivation of Anubias barteri var. barteri as laborious as Sisyphus’s punishment?
Professor: Fear not, my inquisitive friend! The trials of Sisyphus are far from the cultivation requirements of Anubias barteri var. barteri. This plant is quite hardy and perfect for both beginners and experienced aquarists. While it appreciates moderate lighting of about 1.5 watts per gallon, it is also content to grow in low-light situations. CO2 supplementation can boost the growth, although it is not essential.
As for water parameters, this adaptable plant can thrive in a wide range of pH levels, with preferable levels between 5.5 and 7.5. No Herculean tasks are required – a consistent temperature between 72 and 82°F, a comfortable substrate, and proper fertilization will yield splendid results.
Propagation is a breeze! The rhizome can be divided into smaller fragments, each retaining a few leaves and placed either above or underwater for propagation.
4. Precautions
Child: While Icarus soared too close to the sun, causing his tragic demise, will the Anubias barteri var. barteri suffer a similar fate under bright aquarium lights?
Professor: An interesting parallel, but rest assured that Anubias barteri var. barteri won’t meet an Icarus-like end. While it can tolerate moderate to low lighting, excessive light could lead to some algae growth on the slow-growing leaves.
One more thing to remember: never bury the rhizome of the plant in the substrate. Like a gallant beast that needs room to breathe, the rhizome needs exposure to oxygen to prevent rot.
Proper care and caution will not only ensure the health and growth of Anubias but also maintain harmony with other aquarium inhabitants.
5. Summary
So, young Shakespeare, our aquatic journey traversed through the verdant landscapes of Anubias barteri var. barteri, its elegant characteristics, and its undemanding cultivation requirements. The mythical allusions honor the slow yet steadfast spirit of this enchanting aquatic plant. No titan-like efforts or tragic downfalls await you in your quest to create an awe-inspiring underwater paradise with Anubias barteri var. barteri!