Cryptocoryne Pygmy - Tissue culture cup

Overview: Cryptocoryne Pygmaea is a small foreground plant that is native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to Araceae family and is often used in aquascaping due to its attractive foliage that helps aquarists create a lush natural carpet or low bush effect. The compact size is another feature of Cryptocoryne Pygmaea, making it suitable for aquascaping. The green foliage or leaves of the plant are slightly wavy and grow close to the substrate. It makes it suitable for small size and nano tanks where a detailed layout can be planned. Once established, it forms small clusters and slowly grows, spreading and creating a carpet-like look. Even though the growth is slow, it is stable and lasts for longer under suitable conditions. It is perfect for low-tech aquariums.

Advantages: Cryptocoryne Pygmaea is a hardy plant and can cope with minor fluctuations in water parameters; thus, it is suitable for beginners. The tissue culture Cryptocoryne Pygmaea plant will be free from pests and other types of infestations that may hitchhike into the tank. All you need to do is provide it with suitable water conditions, and the plant flourishes. Once settled, it requires low maintenance and lives longer. There is no need to add extra carbon dioxide, and it is resistant to melting as well.

Care: Once you get the tissue culture plant of Cryptocoryne Pygmaea, gently rinse off the nutrient gel under clean tap water. Now, divide it into small portions and plant them in the substrate, preferably around the foreground area, maintaining some space. Do not bury the crown too deeply, as it will cause rot. You may experience melting of Cryptocoryne Pygmaea as a natural part of its adjustment, commonly called ‘Crypt Melt,’ which is temporary. Over time, the plant will recover and grow stronger.

Light Requirements: The ideal light conditions for Cryptocoryne Pygmaea are low to medium. While low light encourages slow and stable growth, medium light will help the plant spread faster, getting dense leaves and bushy growth. If the light is high, algae will increase abundantly.

pH Requirement: Try to maintain pH between 6 and 7.5. It is very important to maintain stable water parameters rather than allowing them to fluctuate frequently. Stable water conditions will give healthy growth.

Other Requirements: The temperature should be between 22°C and 28°C for a healthier growth. While additional carbon dioxide is not necessary, offering it will help the plant flourish even better. Since Cryptocoryne Pygmaea grows low in substrate, adding a nutrient rich substrate will again help it grow healthily with stronger root. To maintain brighter leaves and overall plant health, dosing water with liquid fertilizers will also help.