Anubias Barteri Dark Angel
Plant Profile
Common Name: Anubias Dark Angel
Anubias Barteri Dark Angel is a moody addition to the aquascaping world that is ready to bring some serious contrast to your layout. This compact epiphyte features oval-shaped leaves that are noticeably darker than standard Anubias varieties, boasting an ultra-glossy finish and subtle ruffles along the edges. If your tank's midground is feeling a bit too bright or uniform, this dark beauty is here to help you earn your scaping wings by creating breathtaking depth against lighter stones and driftwood. Tucking its smooth, ruffled foliage into jagged hardscape crevices easily softens up your layout.
Key Features & Benefits
- Deep, glossy dark foliage with gently ruffled margins creates rich visual contrast against lighter hardscape and bright green plants.
- Compact 3-to-5-inch height fills midground gaps, softens jagged rock edges, and nestles seamlessly into wood forks.
- Tough, compact leaves naturally resist grazing from plant-nibbling fish and active dwarf shrimp.
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 'Dark Angel' |
| Common Name(s) | Anubias Dark Angel, Anubias Barteri Dark Angel |
| Family | Araceae |
| Plant Type / Taxonomy | Epiphyte (Rhizome) |
| Care Difficulty | Easy / Beginner-Friendly |
| Light Requirement | Low to Medium |
| CO2 Requirement | Not Required but Beneficial |
| Placement / Usage | Foreground, Midground |
| Height / Size | 3-5 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 Dark Angel?
Attach the plant directly to driftwood or rocks using aquarium-safe super glue gel, thread, or fishing line. Keep the rhizome above the substrate to prevent rot.
2. Does it require CO2 or high lighting?
No. It is a classic low-light plant that thrives without specialized CO2 equipment. While added CO2 will speed up growth and foliage density, it thrives happily in low-tech aquariums.
3. Is this plant safe for shrimp, snails, and fish?
Yes, Anubias is 100% safe for all freshwater fish, shrimp (including sensitive Caridina and Neocaridina), and snails. Its tough leaves are also resistant to plant-eating fish like cichlids or goldfish.