Who Gives A Fish Forums

My Anubias leaves are curling like crazy, and I can't figure out why. Tank's a 20 gallon, running a sponge filter, temp at 78F. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, nitrates around 10ppm. Lighting's a basic LED, 6 hours a day. Substrate is sand with root tabs. Any ideas?

Curling leaves can be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Have you checked your potassium levels? Anubias are slow growers but they still need trace elements. Also, how old are your root tabs? They might be depleted.

I had the same issue with my Java Fern. Turned out my light was too strong. Maybe try reducing the intensity or duration? Anubias don't need much light.

jenniva wrote: ↑Wed Jul 23, 2025 3:41 am Curling leaves can be a sign of nutrient deficiency. Have you checked your potassium levels? Anubias are slow growers but they still need trace elements. Also, how old are your root tabs? They might be depleted.

Yep, potassium's a big one. I'd dose some liquid ferts if you're not already. Root tabs are great but they don't cover everything.

Could be a CO2 issue. Are you running any? Anubias can be finicky with low CO2 levels, especially if the tank's heavily planted elsewhere.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I'll try reducing the light and dosing some potassium. Root tabs are about 3 months old, so maybe time for a refresh.

3 months is pushing it for root tabs. I replace mine every 2 months just to be safe. Let us know how it goes with the changes.

northyx wrote: ↑Wed Jul 23, 2025 5:12 am Could be a CO2 issue. Are you running any? Anubias can be finicky with low CO2 levels, especially if the tank's heavily planted elsewhere.

Nah, CO2's not usually the culprit with Anubias. They're low-tech plants. I'd stick with the nutrient angle first.

My Anubias perked up after I moved them to a shadier spot. Maybe try that before messing with ferts or CO2.

farmon wrote: ↑Wed Jul 23, 2025 7:34 am

northyx wrote: ↑Wed Jul 23, 2025 5:12 am Could be a CO2 issue. Are you running any? Anubias can be finicky with low CO2 levels, especially if the tank's heavily planted elsewhere.

Nah, CO2's not usually the culprit with Anubias. They're low-tech plants. I'd stick with the nutrient angle first.

Fair point, but it's worth considering if nothing else works. Every tank's different.