Pynaert's Anubias

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Native to West and Central Africa (Gabon, Cameroon, Congo). Grows in shaded areas along forest streams, often emersed or temporarily submerged.

Taxonomy & Genetics: Family Araceae, genus Anubias. Morphologically distinct due to its unique spear- or lance-shaped leaves and relatively large adult size.

Physical Structure: Features a thick creeping rhizome from which long, erect petioles grow, supporting trilobed lance-shaped leaves.

Color & Texture: Tough, leathery leaves of a dark matte green color, with prominent venation and a slightly wavy surface texture.

Lighting & CO2: Prefers low to moderate, indirect lighting. Intense light will promote green spot algae growth on its slow-growing leaves. CO2 injection is optional.

Nutrition & Substrate: Must not be buried in the substrate. Attach the rhizome to rocks or driftwood using thread or plant gel. Absorbs nutrients from the water column.

Water Chemistry: Highly adaptable. Prefers a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, soft to medium water hardness, and temperatures of 20-28°C (68-82°F).

Space Management & Placement: Due to its large size (up to 30-40 cm / 12-16 inches), it should be placed in the midground or background of medium to large aquariums.

Pruning: Requires minimal maintenance. Only remove old or damaged leaves by cutting the petiole close to the rhizome with sharp scissors.

Risks & Diseases: Risks of rhizome rot if buried in substrate. Excessively bright lighting leads to severe green spot algae infestation on the leaf blades.