Description

Species Background
Anubias barteri varieties originate from shaded forest streams and riverbanks across West Africa, where they grow attached to wood and rock in slow-moving water. “Marble” is a cultivated form selected for its distinctive variegated pattern—deep green leaves marbled with lighter green tones that give each leaf a unique look.

Growth Behavior
This plant is a slow-growing epiphyte that attaches to hardscape rather than rooting in the substrate. Its thick rhizome creeps gradually along wood or stone while new leaves form from the growth tip. Like other Anubias varieties, it is exceptionally hardy and tolerant of a wide range of aquarium conditions.

Size and Growth Form
Height: typically 3 – 6 inches
Spread: slowly expands outward as the rhizome grows

Leaves are thick, rounded, and durable with a marbled green pattern. The compact growth habit keeps the plant relatively small while the broad leaves provide natural perches for shrimp and small fish grazing on biofilm.

Aquascaping Tip
Attach it to driftwood, cholla wood, or stone where the marbled leaves add contrast and subtle texture to planted layouts.

Water Parameters
Temperature: 68–82°F
pH: 6.0–7.5
GH: 3–12
KH: 1–8

Light Requirements
Low to medium light. Moderate lighting helps prevent algae from forming on the slow-growing leaves.

CO₂ Requirements
Not required. CO₂ can increase growth speed slightly but the plant thrives in low-tech aquariums.

Nutrient Requirements
Feeds primarily from the water column. Occasional liquid fertilization helps support steady growth.

Tank Placement
Foreground to midground, or attached to wood and stone throughout the aquascape.

Why Aquarists Keep It
Aquarists keep this plant for its beautiful marbled leaves, durability, and ability to add natural structure and cover for shrimp and small fish while requiring very little maintenance.