Anubias barteri var. nana ’Kirin’ - Potted

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Kirin' by Tropica is a unique and highly sought-after aquatic plant due to its striking foliage and hardy nature. This variant of the Anubias nana is distinguished by its beautiful, variegated leaves, featuring splashes of light green, yellow, and white against a dark green base. The slow-growing, compact size and its ability to thrive in low-light conditions make Anubias 'Kirin' a fantastic choice for both novice and experienced aquascapers. It's especially well-suited for nano aquariums, low-tech setups, and aquascaping projects where focal plants are needed.

Being an epiphyte, Anubias 'Kirin' can be attached to driftwood, rocks, or other hardscape elements, adding natural beauty and texture to aquascapes. This plant is not only beautiful but also incredibly resilient, capable of thriving in a wide range of water conditions.

Care Guide for Anubias barteri var. nana 'Kirin'

Tank Requirements:

• Tank Size: Anubias barteri var. nana 'Kirin' is ideal for tanks of any size, from nano tanks to large aquariums. It works well as a foreground or midground plant in small tanks, and as a highlight plant in larger setups.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C)
  • pH: 6.0 – 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
  • Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water, 3 – 12 dGH

• Lighting: Anubias 'Kirin' prefers low to moderate light levels. High lighting can lead to algae growth on its leaves, as Anubias is a slow grower. It is best to avoid overly intense lighting without CO₂ injection. Low-tech setups without CO₂ are perfect for this plant.

• CO₂ and Fertilization: While Anubias 'Kirin' doesn't require CO₂ injection, it will benefit from it in high-tech setups, where growth and coloration can be slightly enhanced. For fertilization:

  • Liquid fertilizers are recommended to supply essential nutrients like iron, potassium, and micronutrients.
  • Root tabs are unnecessary since Anubias absorbs most of its nutrients from the water column.

Planting and Placement:

• Epiphyte Nature: Like other Anubias species, Anubias 'Kirin' is best grown attached to hardscape (e.g., driftwood or rocks). Its rhizome should never be buried in the substrate, as this will lead to rotting. Instead, secure the rhizome to hardscape using fishing line, thread, or plant glue. Over time, the roots will attach themselves naturally.

• Placement: Anubias 'Kirin' can be placed in the midground or foreground of aquascapes, depending on the size of the aquarium. It can be a focal point when attached to driftwood or rocks, or it can be used to create a lush, low-growing look.

• Substrate: While Anubias 'Kirin' does not need to be planted in the substrate, you can use fine gravel or nutrient-rich soil in the aquarium. If planting close to the substrate, ensure that only the roots are buried and not the rhizome.

Growth and Propagation:

• Growth Rate: Anubias 'Kirin' is a slow-growing plant, with leaves developing gradually over time. Its slow growth means less maintenance but also makes it prone to algae growth if placed in direct light for extended periods.

• Pruning: If the plant becomes too large, you can trim the rhizome carefully to propagate it. Simply cut a section of the rhizome with several leaves and reattach it to another part of your aquarium. Each section will continue to grow into a new plant.

• Propagation: Propagation is done by cutting the rhizome. When you notice new growth or lateral rhizomes, cut the rhizome with a sharp tool, making sure each piece has at least a few leaves attached. Reattach the cuttings to other hardscape in the aquarium.

Tank Mates:

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Kirin' is compatible with a wide variety of fish, shrimp, and snails due to its hardy leaves and resilience. Ideal tank mates include:

• Shrimp species: Neocaridina and Caridina shrimp will use Anubias 'Kirin' for shelter and grazing areas, and their waste will help fertilize the plant.
• Small, peaceful fish: Tetras, rasboras, dwarf gouramis, and Corydoras catfish are all good options.
• Snails: Nerite snails and mystery snails are also suitable companions, as they won’t harm the plant.

Anubias 'Kirin' is also a popular choice in cichlid tanks and tanks with fish that may uproot more delicate plants, as the leaves are thick and resistant to being damaged by fish.

Common Issues:

• Algae Growth: Due to its slow-growing nature, algae may develop on the leaves if the plant is exposed to too much light. The best way to prevent this is by keeping the lighting low to moderate and ensuring good water circulation. Shrimp and algae-eating snails can help control algae buildup.

• Leaf Yellowing: Leaf yellowing is usually a sign of nutrient deficiency, particularly iron. Use a comprehensive liquid fertilizer to supplement missing nutrients.

• Melting Leaves: Although uncommon, Anubias may experience melting when first introduced to a new aquarium. This is usually temporary as the plant adjusts to its new environment. New leaves will grow back, and the plant should stabilize.

Maintenance:

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Kirin' is an easy-to-care-for plant with minimal maintenance needs. Regular tasks include:

• Trimming dead or yellow leaves to keep the plant healthy and prevent algae buildup.
• Occasional fertilization (especially if no fish or shrimp are present in the tank to provide organic waste).
• Prune rhizome for propagation or if the plant becomes too large for the aquascape.

Summary:

Anubias barteri var. nana 'Kirin' is a stunning, variegated plant that brings a unique splash of color to any aquascape. Its slow-growing, hardy nature makes it perfect for low-maintenance setups, and its adaptability to various lighting and water conditions ensures it will thrive in a wide range of aquariums. Whether you're looking for a beautiful midground plant or a centerpiece for a nano tank, Anubias 'Kirin' is an excellent choice that will captivate attention without demanding too much care.