Black Spots on Anubias Nana Leaves

Black Brush Algae Appearance and Growth

• A type of red algae, black brush algae appears on the leaves of the Anubias nana in shades of black and purplish gray. It produces long hairs that measure a quarter of an inch and protrude outward giving the algae the appearance of a small brush. Black brush algae appears predominantly along the leaves' margins. The algae does not harm the Anubias nana, but it does render the plant unsightly.

Treating Brush Algae

• Siamese algae eaters and the American flag fish will eat black brush algae. Pour 1 ml of peroxide per every 5 gallons of aquarium water into the aquarium tank to help control black brush algae. Never overdose the tank with peroxide or fish and plants may die. Clip away the infected leaves and discard them. The plant will eventually grow new leaves.

Green Algae Appearance and Growth

• Green algae on the Anabias nana flourishes in sunlight. The algae produces wispy hairs that protrude outward. Left untreated, the green algae, will rob the plant of its valuable nutrients and may eventually cause its death. An infected plant will display round spots of dark green or black algae on the leaves. Consider adding snails or algae-eating fish to the tank to naturally remove the algae. Frequent water changes also help reduce the algae's prevalence.

Treating Green Algae

• Remove the Anabias nana from the tank and soak it in 1 part bleach to 20 parts water to remove the green algae. When the spots of algae begin to turn white, take the plant out of the water and bleach solution. Rinse the plant in tepid water and use several drops of anti-chlorine on the algae spots. Gently rub the algae spots from the plant's leaves. Rinse the plant in lukewarm water to remove all the chemicals before you place it back into the tank.