Anubias Nana sp. Pintos

Rare, variegated, and strikingly beautiful — Anubias nana sp. Pintos is one of the most prized and sought-after Anubias cultivars in the planted aquarium hobby. Named for its distinctive pinto-like variegation — irregular patches and splashes of white, cream, and pale yellow on a deep green background — each leaf is a unique work of natural art. As hardy and easy to keep as standard Anubias nana, but with a visual impact that is truly extraordinary.

Overview

Appearance

The Pintos cultivar is celebrated for its stunning variegation — each leaf displays an unpredictable pattern of white, cream, and pale yellow patches and splashes against a deep green background, creating a pinto or marbled effect that is unique to every individual leaf. New leaves often emerge with more intense white colouration that gradually develops as the leaf matures. The variegation pattern varies between plants and even between leaves on the same plant, making each specimen truly one of a kind.

Water Parameters & Care

• Temperature: 72 – 82°F (22 – 28°C)
• pH: 6.0 – 8.0
• General Hardness (GH): 3 – 20 dGH
• Lighting: Low to moderate — moderate lighting enhances variegation
• CO₂: Not required
• Fertiliser: Benefits from occasional liquid fertiliser; avoid excess nitrogen which can reduce variegation

Planting & Placement

Never bury the rhizome in substrate — attach to driftwood or rocks using fishing line, cotton thread, or aquarium-safe glue. Its compact size and striking variegation make it ideal as a foreground or midground focal point, or as a stunning accent on driftwood in nano and planted aquariums.

Compatibility

Compatible with all freshwater fish and invertebrates. Thick leaves resist most herbivorous fish. Algae can develop on older leaves — Otocinclus, Amano shrimp, and Nerite snails are excellent companions for algae control.

Propagation

Divide the rhizome with a clean, sharp blade, ensuring each section has at least 2–3 leaves. Note that variegation may vary in propagated sections. Attach new sections to driftwood or rock and allow to establish.

Anubias nana sp. Pintos is a collector’s treasure — a rare, variegated cultivar that brings extraordinary visual interest and natural artistry to any aquascape. Easy to keep, virtually indestructible, and endlessly fascinating — a true centrepiece plant.