Troubleshooting
Broad-leaved Anubias problems — and how to fix them
Broad-leaved Anubias (Anubias barteri) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Algae on leaves
The slow growth rate makes leaves susceptible to algae colonisation, especially green spot algae. Reduce lighting duration or intensity, introduce algae-eating fish (Otocinclus, nerite snails), and avoid excess nutrients in the water column.
Rhizome rot
Burying the rhizome in substrate causes it to rot at the crown. Always attach to hardscape with only the roots in or near the substrate. Brown, mushy rhizome tissue should be cut back to clean, firm growth and the plant re-attached.
Yellowing leaves
Yellow leaves usually indicate iron or micronutrient deficiency in aquarium conditions. Dose with a complete liquid fertiliser containing chelated iron and trace elements. Low-light conditions can also cause slow yellowing of older leaves.
Prevent broad-leaved anubias problems before they start
Most broad-leaved anubias issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Broad-leaved Anubias problems — FAQ
Why is my broad-leaved anubias algae on leaves?
The slow growth rate makes leaves susceptible to algae colonisation, especially green spot algae. Reduce lighting duration or intensity, introduce algae-eating fish (Otocinclus, nerite snails), and avoid excess nutrients in the water column.
Why is my broad-leaved anubias rhizome rot?
Burying the rhizome in substrate causes it to rot at the crown. Always attach to hardscape with only the roots in or near the substrate. Brown, mushy rhizome tissue should be cut back to clean, firm growth and the plant re-attached.
Why is my broad-leaved anubias yellowing leaves?
Yellow leaves usually indicate iron or micronutrient deficiency in aquarium conditions. Dose with a complete liquid fertiliser containing chelated iron and trace elements. Low-light conditions can also cause slow yellowing of older leaves.