Anubias Short and Sharp
Plant Profile
The naming department might have been having a bit of fun with Anubias Short & Sharp, considering there isn't actually anything particularly "short" about it, especially when stacked up against other smaller varieties of Anubias Barteri. What it does deliver, however, is an unmistakably sharp silhouette. Featuring sleek, lanceolate leaves similar to Anubias Lanceolata, this epiphyte distinguishes itself with a subtle, rippled wave along the leaf margins. Reaching up to 8 inches in height with individual leaves stretching up to 6 inches long, it's a great pick for a midground or background accent in planted aquariums, terrariums, and paludariums.
Key Features & Benefits
- Sleek, lance-shaped leaves with distinct wavy edges provide a sharp, dynamic texture.
- Thick foliage resists grazing from cichlids, herbivorous fish, snails, and active dwarf shrimp.
- Resilient nature handles a wide range of water parameters in low-tech setups with ease.
Care & Planting Instructions
- Prep the plant by removing it from the pot and clearing all rockwool from the roots.
- Attach to hardscape using aquarium‑safe glue or thread; keep the rhizome above substrate to prevent rot.
- Maintain stable conditions to support smooth acclimation and reduce leaf loss.
- Avoid intense light and ensure good water flow to prevent spot algae on slow‑growing leaves.
- CO₂ is optional but improves growth and leaf density.
- Learn more about planting these species by reading our guide on How to Plant Epiphyte Aquatic Plants.
- Master long-term care and propagation with the article All About Anubias Aquarium Plants.
Quick Facts
Listed information should be treated as general guidelines only. Team Buce Plant encourages you to do thorough research to ensure healthy growth!
| Attribute | Specification |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Anubias barteri var. nana 'Short & Sharp' |
| Common Name(s) | Anubias Short and Sharp |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy | Epiphyte (Rhizome) |
| Care Difficulty | Easy / Beginner-Friendly |
| Light Requirement | Low |
| CO2 Requirement | Not Required but Beneficial |
| Placement / Usage | Foreground, Midground Crevices |
| Height / Size | 4-8 inches |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Water Parameters | pH 6.0 – 7.5 | Temperature 68°F – 82°F (20°C – 28°C) |
| Propagation Method | Separate by Rhizome Division |
| Origin | West Africa |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I plant Anubias Short & Sharp in an aquarium?
Attach the plant directly to driftwood or rocks using aquarium-safe super glue gel, cotton thread, or fishing line. Ensure the horizontal rhizome remains exposed above the substrate to prevent rot.
2. Is Anubias Short & Sharp a good low-light plant for aquarium setups?
Yes. It is an ideal Anubias for aquarium tanks with low to moderate lighting. It does not require specialized CO₂ equipment to stay healthy, though gentle water flow helps keep its slow-growing leaves free of spot algae.
3. Is Anubias Short & Sharp safe for shrimp, snails, and fish?
Yes, Anubias Short & Sharp is 100% safe for all freshwater fish, dwarf shrimp (including Caridina and Neocaridina), and snails. Its tough foliage also holds up well in tanks with boisterous or plant-nibbling fish like cichlids and goldfish.