1. Introduction
【Child】 Professor, have you ever heard of the ancient Hanging Gardens of Babylon, supposedly built by King Nebuchadnezzar II for his wife? I heard they were so beautiful that they were one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. I was wondering if we could create something like that but in an aquarium instead of a garden. What would you recommend we use?
【Professor】 Ah, I see what you’re getting at! What a delightful concept. Well, in that case, allow me to introduce you to a majestic aquatic plant that will bring the essence of Babylon’s beauty to your aquarium — Anubias afzelii! In this article, we’ll explore the enchanting world of Anubias afzelii, touching on its characteristics, how to cultivate it, and precautions you should consider.
2. Characteristics
【Child】 Professor, can you describe the appearance of Anubias afzelii? Does it resemble the Elysium fields described in Greek mythology, a paradise where hero spirits would rest?
【Professor】 Well, I wouldn’t go as far as comparing it to the Elysium fields, but Anubias afzelii certainly has a majestic charm. It has dark green, arrow-shaped leaves that are thick and leathery. They grow on a rhizome that creeps along, giving the plant a unique appearance. In the right conditions, Anubias afzelii can grow up to 11-16 inches tall, making it perfect for various aquarium sizes.
Imagine a mid-sized aquarium with Anubias afzelii lining the background, their large leaves creating a lush, dense curtain reminiscent of an ancient, enchanted forest. In a smaller-sized aquarium, the plant can become a striking focal point when positioned in the center or even serve as a hiding place for your aquatic creatures.
3. Cultivation
【Child】 Professor, do you think cultivating Anubias afzelii requires the skill of Daedalus, the mythical engineer who built the labyrinth of Crete, or can even I, a mere mortal, grow it successfully?
【Professor】 Fear not, my young friend! Cultivating Anubias afzelii doesn’t require any divine intervention. It’s a hardy plant that can withstand various conditions, making it suitable for beginners and experienced aquarists alike.
This resilient plant can tolerate a wide range of light intensities, CO2 levels, and water parameters like pH, GH, and KH. It thrives in temperatures between 72-82°F. When planting Anubias afzelii, make sure to attach it to rocks or driftwood, as burying the rhizome in the substrate may cause it to rot.
Propagation can be achieved by dividing the rhizome into pieces while ensuring each piece has at least a couple of leaves on it. This can be done both underwater and above water, so grab your gardening shears and channel your inner Daedalus!
4. Precautions
【Child】 Professor, I’ve read about Icarus, who flew too close to the sun despite his father’s warning. Are there any precautionary tales related to Anubias afzelii that I should keep in mind while creating my aquatic paradise?
【Professor】 Your cautionary mindset will serve you well in this undertaking! There are a few precautions to be aware of when cultivating Anubias afzelii.
Firstly, avoid burying its rhizome in the substrate, as I mentioned earlier. Secondly, as this plant is susceptible to algae growth on its leaves, ensure that your aquarium’s nutrient levels are in balance to minimize algae colonization. Finally, while Anubias afzelii is not toxic to fish, some herbivorous fish may nibble on its leaves, so choose your plant’s aquatic companions wisely.
5. Summary
【Child】 So, professor, will Anubias afzelii create an underwater Hanging Gardens of Babylon in my humble aquarium?
【Professor】 Indeed it will, my curious young friend! The enchanting Anubias afzelii is a versatile and hardy aquatic plant that adds depth and allure to any aquarium. With its distinctive, arrow-shaped leaves, it brings an element of ancient mystique to the underwater world. Just remember to give it the proper care and heed our discussed precautions, and your aquatic garden shall be the envy of every fish in the sea!