Cryptocoryne walkeri - Tissue Cultured Aquarium Plant

Overview: Commonly known as Crypt Walkeri, this tissue cultured plant is an ideal one for the aquariums of different size.  It is originated in Sri Lanka and belongs to family Araceae. Cryptocoryne is a common crypt which is perfect for the beginners as well as experts. The tissue cultures form of the plant has its own advantages, making the ambiance of the tank hygienic and suitable for every creature. Being a low demanding plant that can thrive well in diverse water conditions, it can be one of your choices for the tank. The plant can grow well in both submerged and fully immersed conditions. When fully immersed, it produces flowers above the water. Crypt. Walker attains a maximum height of 4-6”.

Advantages: Grown and maintained in in-vitro conditions, the tissue culture plants ensure zero infestation of pests in the aquarium. None of the plants or aquatic creatures in the tank will experience any harmful effect while introducing a new plant if it is tissue cultured.

Care: It is essential that you remove the tissue culture gel thoroughly before introducing the plant in the tank. Either wash the gel away with clean water or remove it by the hands. Later, proper maintenance and regular trimming are also important to keep the foliage dense and within the desired height. Do not let the plant grow beyond 5” to give the best appearance in the tank.

Light requirements: Crypt. walkeri is a low maintenance plant which can thrive well under low to moderate light conditions. Although there is no need for carbon dioxide, if you can supply, it will enhance the plant’s growth. Crypt. is seen to have robust and more proliferated growth when CO2 is supplied.

pH requirements: The plant can thrive well under the pH requirements ranging between 5.5-8.0.

Other requirements: Other than carbon dioxide, some major requirements of the plant for growing well in the tank environment are high levels of calcium, phosphate, iron, and nitrate.

Propagation: Cryptocoryne walkeri propagates through the runner. You can simply cut and replant it in the substrate for having it in the tank. If you want more coverage, plant the cuttings at the distance of one inch. Moreover, you can also go for the trumpets that have roots in them, exposed to the nutrients.