Who Gives A Fish Forums

My Anubias started melting after I switched to a new light. The leaves turned yellow and some fell off. Water params are good, 0 ammonia, 0 nitrite, 10 nitrate. Tank is 20 gallons, stocked with tetras and a betta. Any tips to stop the melt?

Anubias can be sensitive to sudden light changes. What's the PAR rating of your new light? If it's too high, you might need to dim it or reduce photoperiod. Also, check if the rhizome is buried, that'll cause melt too.

Yep, light shock is a thing. I had the same issue with my Java Fern when I upgraded. Try shading the Anubias with floaters or lowering the light intensity. It's kinda like sunburn for plants, lol.

bronzefox wrote: ↑Thu Aug 21, 2025 9:00 am Anubias can be sensitive to sudden light changes. What's the PAR rating of your new light? If it's too high, you might need to dim it or reduce photoperiod. Also, check if the rhizome is buried, that'll cause melt too.

Agreed. I'd also add that nutrient imbalance could play a role. Are you dosing any fertilizers? Sometimes low potassium can trigger melt.

Light and nutrients are key, but don't overlook flow. Anubias prefers gentle circulation. If your filter's too strong, it might stress the plant. I'd check flow direction and adjust if needed. Also, how often are you doing water changes?

Thanks for the advice, everyone. I'll try dimming the light and checking the rhizome. I dose Seachem Flourish weekly, but I'll look into potassium. Flow is moderate, and I do 25% water changes every week.

Sounds like you're on the right track. Just chill and give it time. Plants can be drama queens when things change. Mine bounced back after a few weeks.

I'm sorry you're dealing with this. Plant melt can be so discouraging. Remember, it's okay to lose a few leaves. The new growth will adapt to the new conditions. You've got this!

taxiroad wrote: ↑Thu Aug 21, 2025 1:51 pm Sounds like you're on the right track. Just chill and give it time. Plants can be drama queens when things change. Mine bounced back after a few weeks.

True, but if it's still melting after a month, something's sketchy. Might wanna test your tap water for weird stuff like chloramines.

My Anubias did the same thing. I moved it to a shadier spot, and it stopped melting. Maybe try that?