Anubias barteri ‘Mini Coin’

Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Tropica Mini Coin’ is a charming, compact cultivar of the Anubias plant that is popular among aquascapers and aquarium enthusiasts due to its unique appearance and small size. It is a variety of the well-known Anubias barteri, but with specific traits that make it stand out in aquariums.

Key Characteristics of Anubias ‘Tropica Mini Coin’:

1. Appearance:
   • The leaves of Anubias ‘Tropica Mini Coin’ are small, rounded, and have a distinctive coin-like shape, which is where it gets its “mini coin” name.
   • The leaves are dark green with a smooth, leathery texture and a shiny appearance, which gives them a sleek, attractive look.
   • It’s a dwarf variety, so it stays small and compact, which is ideal for aquariums with limited space or aquascaping designs where smaller plants are preferred.
2. Size:
   • This variety is particularly small, with a maximum height typically reaching around 2 to 3 inches (5-7 cm). Its compact size makes it perfect for nano tanks, small aquariums, or even terrariums.
   • It grows slowly, which is typical of many Anubias species, and requires minimal maintenance in terms of trimming and care.
3. Hardiness:
   • Anubias ‘Tropica Mini Coin’ is a robust and hardy plant, much like other Anubias varieties. It’s well-suited to a range of aquarium conditions and can handle different water parameters.
   • It tolerates low to moderate light conditions, making it a great choice for aquariums with less intense lighting or even low-tech setups.
   • It’s relatively low-maintenance and will grow well even in tanks with less frequent care.
4. Care Requirements:
   • Water Conditions: It thrives in a range of water temperatures (72-82°F or 22-28°C) and can tolerate soft to moderately hard water with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. It does well in freshwater setups.
   • Lighting: Like many Anubias species, Tropica Mini Coin doesn’t require intense light to grow. It performs best under low to moderate lighting conditions. High lighting can encourage algae growth on its leaves, so it’s important to maintain balanced lighting.
   • Substrate: This plant can be attached to rocks, driftwood, or decorations, as it’s an epiphytic plant (it doesn’t need to be planted in the substrate to thrive). If you do plant it in the substrate, ensure the rhizome is not buried, as that can cause rot.
   • Fertilization: While it doesn’t have high nutrient demands, providing occasional liquid fertilizers or root tabs can help it grow more healthily, especially if you’re growing it in a nutrient-poor setup.
5. Growth Rate:
   • Anubias ‘Tropica Mini Coin’ has a very slow growth rate. It may take time to develop and spread, which is why it is a good choice for aquarists who prefer low-maintenance plants.
   • It does not require frequent trimming, but if the leaves start to grow too large or damaged, they can be pruned.
6. Tank Compatibility:
   • This plant is versatile and can fit in a variety of setups, including nano aquariums, planted tanks, and aquascapes.
   • It’s safe for tanks with shrimp, snails, and small fish since these animals typically don’t damage the plant. However, like other Anubias species, it can be grazed upon by larger herbivorous fish, although it generally grows back easily.
   • Its compact size and aesthetic appeal make it ideal for foreground planting or as part of aquascaping designs like carpeting or small bushy accents.

In Summary:

Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Tropica Mini Coin’ is a beautiful and compact plant that’s perfect for small aquariums and nano setups. Its rounded, coin-like leaves add a distinct texture and color to aquascapes. It’s easy to care for, hardy, and grows slowly, making it a low-maintenance addition to any tank. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned aquascaper, this plant offers a lovely, effortless touch to your underwater landscape.