Anubias Nana Dark Moon – Low Light Rhizome Aquarium Plant
Anubias Nana Dark Moon is a striking freshwater aquarium rhizome plant known for its compact growth and rich, dark green leaves. This unique Anubias variety adds dramatic contrast and structure to planted aquariums, especially when placed against lighter green plants, driftwood, stone, or natural aquarium decor.
Like other Anubias varieties, Anubias Nana Dark Moon is extremely hardy and low maintenance. It thrives in low to moderate lighting, does not require CO2, and is ideal for beginner planted tanks, nano aquariums, shrimp tanks, and peaceful community setups.
Key Features
- Compact Anubias variety with rich dark green leaves
- Hardy and beginner-friendly aquarium plant
- Excellent low-light rhizome plant
- Great for nano tanks and foreground to midground placement
- Best attached to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor
- Safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish
Plant Care Information
- Scientific Name: Anubias barteri var. nana ‘Dark Moon’
- Common Name: Anubias Nana Dark Moon
- Plant Type: Rhizome aquarium plant
- Placement: Foreground to midground, or attached to hardscape
- Lighting: Low to medium
- Temperature: 68–82°F
- pH: 6.5–7.8
- Growth Rate: Slow
- Care Level: Easy
- CO2: Not required
- Substrate: Not required; attach to driftwood, rock, or decor
- Propagation: Rhizome division
Tank Placement
Anubias Nana Dark Moon works best in the foreground to midground of freshwater aquariums or attached directly to hardscape. Its compact size and dark green leaves make it a great choice for nano tanks, shrimp aquariums, and detailed aquascapes.
This plant should not have its rhizome buried in substrate. Attach it to driftwood, rocks, or decor using aquarium-safe glue, thread, or fishing line. The roots may grow down into the substrate over time, but the main rhizome should always remain exposed to prevent rot.
Lighting, CO2 & Nutrients
Anubias Nana Dark Moon thrives in low to medium lighting, making it a strong choice for low-tech aquariums and shaded areas of planted tanks. Because it grows slowly, moderate lighting is usually best to help reduce algae buildup on the leaves.
CO2 is not required for Anubias Nana Dark Moon. This plant grows well in simple aquarium setups with stable water conditions. Occasional liquid fertilizer can help support healthy dark green leaves, stronger roots, and steady growth.
Trimming & Maintenance
Anubias Nana Dark Moon is very low maintenance. Trim older, damaged, yellowing, or algae-covered leaves near the base of the stem to keep the plant looking clean and healthy.
Because it is a slow-growing rhizome plant, it does not need frequent trimming. Keep the rhizome exposed, avoid burying it in substrate, and place the plant in areas with gentle water flow to help prevent debris buildup on the leaves.
Best Uses in Aquariums
- Nano freshwater aquariums
- Low-light planted tanks
- Foreground to midground placement
- Driftwood and rock aquascapes
- Shrimp tanks and fry cover
- Community fish aquariums
- Low-tech planted aquarium setups
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant Anubias Nana Dark Moon in substrate?
No. Avoid burying the rhizome. Attach Anubias Nana Dark Moon to driftwood, rocks, or aquarium decor to help prevent rhizome rot.
Does Anubias Nana Dark Moon need CO2?
No. This variety grows well in low-tech aquariums without CO2 injection.
Is Anubias Nana Dark Moon safe for shrimp and snails?
Yes. Anubias Nana Dark Moon is safe for shrimp, snails, and peaceful freshwater fish. Its leaves also provide cover and grazing surfaces for shrimp.
How big does Anubias Nana Dark Moon grow?
Anubias Nana Dark Moon stays compact, usually around 2–5 inches tall depending on aquarium conditions and time to establish.
Can Anubias Nana Dark Moon grow in low light?
Yes. Anubias Nana Dark Moon thrives in low to medium lighting and is a great option for shaded areas of freshwater aquariums.
How do I propagate Anubias Nana Dark Moon?
Anubias Nana Dark Moon can be propagated by carefully dividing the rhizome into healthy sections, making sure each section has leaves and roots.
Why are algae growing on my Anubias leaves?
Algae can grow on slow-growing Anubias leaves when lighting is too strong, water flow is too low, or nutrients are unbalanced. Low to moderate lighting and steady maintenance can help reduce algae buildup.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
Anubias Nana Dark Moon is a compact, low-light aquarium plant for aquarists looking to add dark green leaves, easy-care structure, and natural contrast to freshwater planted tanks. Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, or shop online for live aquarium plants, freshwater fish, shrimp, snails, and aquarium supplies.
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