Description
Cryptocoryne Pink Panther
Overview
Cryptocoryne wendtii ‘Pink Panther,’ also known as Crypt Flamingo or Crypt Pink Flamingo, is a striking aquarium plant prized for its vibrant pink foliage, which adds a unique aesthetic to freshwater aquascapes. A cultivar of Cryptocoryne wendtii, it is native to Sri Lanka and is popular among aquarists for its distinctive ruffled leaves and vivid colouration, ranging from bright pink in new growth to a more subdued pink as leaves mature. This slow-growing, rosette-forming plant is ideal for midground or foreground placement in aquariums, typically reaching 20-30 cm in height. Its adaptability and relatively low maintenance make it suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists, though it requires stable conditions to thrive.
Care Requirements
Lighting: Medium to high lighting (80 µmol PAR or higher) enhances its pink colouration, with red/blue spectrum light promoting vibrant hues. Low light is tolerated but may result in olive-toned leaves.
Water Parameters:
- Temperature: 20-28°C.
- pH: 5.5-7.5, with neutral to slightly alkaline preferred.
- Hardness: 1-20 dGH, with slightly higher GH (4-5 dGH) optimal
Substrate: A nutrient-rich substrate, such as aquarium soil or fine gravel, is essential for its robust root system. Root tabs can supplement nutrient needs in inert substrates like sand.
Nutrients: Consistent fertilization with balanced liquid fertilizers supports healthy growth.
CO2: CO2 injection is beneficial but not mandatory; liquid carbon supplements like Seachem Excel can suffice.
Tank Requirements: Suitable for nano to large tanks, with a minimum of 20 litres recommended for smaller setups.
Planting and Propagation
Planting:
- Cryptocoryne Pink Panther requires careful handling.
- Remove the plant from its medium, rinse roots gently, and plant the root portion halfway into the substrate using tweezers to avoid damage.
- Avoid moving the plant once planted, as Cryptocorynes are prone to “crypt melt” when disturbed.
Propagation:
- This plant propagates via runners or rhizome division.
- Runners naturally produce plantlets that can be cut and replanted once they develop roots and a few leaves.
- For rhizome division, carefully separate a section of the rhizome with roots and leaves, then replant.
- Patience is key, as growth is slow, often taking 3-6 months for plantlets to mature.
Maintenance
- Routine Care: Remove dead or decaying leaves promptly to prevent water quality issues. Monitor water parameters to maintain stability, as fluctuations can trigger crypt melt. Regular water changes (25% every 1-2 weeks) and filter maintenance support a healthy environment.
- Substrate Maintenance: Ensure the substrate remains nutrient-rich; replenish root tabs every 3-6 months if needed. Avoid disturbing the roots during tank maintenance.
- Trimming: Minimal trimming is required due to its slow growth. Thin out runners periodically to prevent overcrowding, especially in smaller tanks.
Challenges and Tips
Challenges:
- Crypt Melt: A common issue where leaves decay due to environmental changes (e.g., water parameters, lighting, or replanting). To minimize, maintain stable conditions and avoid moving the plant. If melt occurs, do not remove the plant; healthy roots will produce new growth within weeks.
- Algae Growth: Excessive light or nutrient imbalances can lead to algae on leaves. Use moderate lighting and ensure consistent fertilization to prevent this. Regular tank cleaning helps.
- Slow Growth: Pink Panther’s slow growth can be frustrating. Enhance growth with CO2, high-quality lighting, and nutrient-rich substrates. Avoid overshadowing by taller plants.
- Tissue Culture Adaptation: Tissue culture plants may be delicate initially. Allow 3-5 months for establishment, and avoid disturbing small plantlets, which are prone to algae.
Tips:
- Plant in groups for a lush effect, but ensure spacing to allow root spread.
- Use a red/blue spectrum light to enhance pink colouration.
- Test water parameters regularly to maintain stability.
- Pair with complementary plants like Anubias or Vallisneria for a balanced aquascape.
Recommendation
- Cryptocoryne Pink Panther is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a vibrant, low-maintenance plant to enhance their aquarium’s aesthetic. It pairs well in community tanks with fish like tetras or shrimp, which benefit from its dense foliage for hiding.
- For best results, invest in a nutrient-rich substrate like APT Feast and consider CO2 supplementation for vivid colouration. Avoid frequent tank rearrangements to prevent stress. This plant is ideal for aquascapes aiming for a natural, colourful look, particularly in midground or foreground placements.
- By providing stable conditions and patience, Cryptocoryne Pink Panther will reward aquarists with a stunning, long-lasting addition to their underwater landscape.
