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Freshwater Plants

Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia — Large

Broad heart-shaped leaves with the rugged dependability of a classic crypt.

Cryptocoryne pontederiifolia
Available for local pickup by appointment only.

A robust Sumatran Cryptocoryne with broad, slightly textured leaves and a substantial mature footprint. It adapts well to low-tech aquariums after its initial settling period.

Reference image — cultivar may vary.Imagen de referencia — el cultivar puede variar.

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Care Sheet

What it needs to thrive

Lighting
Low to moderate light; stronger light improves compact growth and color.
Flow
Gentle to moderate flow.
Feeding
Heavy root feeder. Plant in nutrient-rich substrate and refresh root tabs regularly.
Temperament
Peaceful, shrimp-safe, and suitable for planted community aquariums.
Difficulty
Beginner
Ideal Tank Size
10 gallons and up
Water Parameters
70–80°F · pH 6.0–7.5 · soft to moderately hard water · 0 ammonia / 0 nitrite
Placement

Plant the crown at substrate level in the midground; avoid moving it once established.

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Arrival Protocol

Quarantine, dip, and acclimation

Quarantine

Hold all new fish in a bare-bottom 10–20 gallon QT for a minimum of 4 weeks. Observe for flashing, clamped fins, white spots, or breathing changes. Treat preventatively with copper (1.75–2.5 ppm chelated) or tank-transfer method for ich, plus a praziquantel course for flukes. Invertebrates and corals skip QT but go through dip and observation instead.

Recommended coral dip

For every new coral: a 5–10 minute bath in your reef-safe dip of choice (Bayer Complete, CoralRx, or Reef Primer) following label dosage, followed by two clean saltwater rinses. Inspect plugs and bases for flatworms, pyramid snails, and eggs — remove or refrag onto clean plugs before placing in display.

Acclimation

Float sealed bags in your QT or display for 15 minutes to match temperature. Then drip acclimate at 2–4 drops per second for 45–60 minutes until volume has tripled. Net livestock into the tank — never pour shipping water in. Dim the lights for the first 24 hours to reduce stress.

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