Anubias is a popular freshwater plant known for its hardiness and adaptability, making it a great choice for aquarium enthusiasts. Whether you’re working with African Cichlids or Goldfish, you may wonder: How do you attach Anubias to an aquarium? This plant can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or other aquarium decor for a beautiful and natural-looking setup. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of securely attaching Anubias to ensure it thrives in your tank.
What Supplies Do You Need to Attach Anubias?
Before starting, gather the necessary supplies:
Anubias plant
Porous aquarium rock or driftwood (like Texas holey rock or lava rock)
Super glue gel (must contain cyanoacrylate)
Paper towel or hand towel
Using the right materials is important. Super glue gel is the best adhesive for aquarium plants because it forms an acrylic bond that securely attaches Anubias to the surface.
How Do You Prepare Anubias for Attachment?
The first step is to prepare the Anubias plant for attachment:
Carefully remove the plant from its pot.
Gently clean the roots, removing the rock wool surrounding them.
Identify the rhizome, the thick, horizontal part of the plant from which the leaves and roots grow. Make sure not to cover the rhizome with glue, as this can harm the plant.
Where Should You Place the Anubias on Rocks or Driftwood?
Next, find the ideal spot on the rock or driftwood:
Look for a natural dip or crevice on the surface, as this will help the plant stay in place.
Dab the plant roots on a paper towel to remove excess moisture before applying the glue.
How Do You Attach Anubias to an Aquarium Rock?
Attaching Anubias to an aquarium rock is a simple yet precise process that ensures the plant thrives without needing to be planted in the substrate. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide on how to do it correctly:
Prepare the Rock and Plant:
First, choose a porous rock such as Texas holey rock, lava rock, or any other type of aquarium-safe stone. The rock’s surface should have natural dips or crevices where the Anubias can be secured easily.
Gently remove the Anubias plant from its pot. Be careful while handling the roots, as they can be delicate. Clean the roots by removing the rock wool (cotton-like material) that usually surrounds them. You can do this by gently running the roots under water and cleaning them with your fingers.
Identify the Rhizome:
The rhizome is the thick, horizontal part of the plant where the roots grow from one side and the leaves from the other. It’s important to keep the rhizome free from any glue or substrate, as burying or covering it may cause the plant to rot.
Locate a spot on the rhizome where you can attach it to the rock. This area should be near the roots, as these are what will eventually grip onto the rock for long-term attachment.
Dry the Plant Roots:
Before applying any adhesive, dab the plant roots dry with a paper towel or hand towel. This helps the glue adhere better to both the plant and the rock.
Apply Super Glue Gel:
Use super glue gel (with cyanoacrylate as the active ingredient) to attach the plant. This type of glue works underwater and is safe for fish and plants.
Squeeze a thin, even layer of glue onto the chosen spot on the rock. You’ll want to spread it along the length of the rhizome but make sure to keep the glue away from the leaves and the top of the rhizome to avoid damaging the plant.
Attach the Plant:
Firmly press the Anubias roots into the glued area of the rock. Hold the plant in place for about 1-2 minutes to ensure the bond forms securely.
While pressing the plant down, make sure the rhizome is not covered in glue or buried in the crevice. The roots should be the only part touching the glue, as they will naturally grow around and secure themselves to the rock over time.
Let the Glue Set:
Once you’ve attached the plant to the rock, allow the glue to dry for a few minutes before placing the rock back into the aquarium. Even though the super glue gel forms an instant bond, waiting a few minutes ensures a stronger hold.
Place in Aquarium:
After the glue has set, place the rock with the attached Anubias into the desired spot in your aquarium. Position it where it can receive appropriate lighting and water flow, which will encourage healthy growth.
Over time, the roots will naturally grip the rock, further securing the plant as it grows.
By using this method, the Anubias plant will establish itself on the rock without needing to be anchored in the substrate. This setup not only adds a stunning aesthetic to your tank but also allows the plant to thrive in a variety of aquarium conditions.
How Long Does It Take for Anubias to Attach Naturally?
Once you’ve attached the plant, place it in your aquarium.
Over time, the Anubias roots will naturally grow and secure themselves to the rock or driftwood. This process typically takes a few weeks, but the super glue will hold the plant in place in the meantime.
Can You Attach Anubias to Other Surfaces in the Aquarium?
While rocks and driftwood are the most common surfaces, Anubias can also be attached to other aquarium decor, like plastic ornaments. The key is to use a solid, porous surface that allows the roots to grab hold over time.
Conclusion
Attaching Anubias to your aquarium is a simple process that adds beauty and natural decoration to your tank. By following these steps and using super glue gel, you can securely attach Anubias to rocks or driftwood, helping it thrive in your aquatic environment. Enjoy watching your aquarium transform as this hardy plant grows and enhances your underwater landscape.
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