Scientific Classification
Kingdom:Plantae
Phylum:Tracheophytes
Class:Magnoliopsida
Order:Alismatales
Family:Araceae
Genus:Cryptocoryne
Species:parva
IUCN Status:Least Concern
Quick Stats
Difficulty
Medium
Environment
Freshwater
Temperature
20°C - 28°C
pH Level
6 - 8
Water Hardness
36 - 215 ppm
Growth
Very Slow
Lighting
Medium - High
Max Height
3-10 cm
Placement
Carpet
CO2 Requirements
Low
Water Flow
Low Flow
About This Species
The Dwarf Water Trumpet, or Cryptocoryne parva, is one of the smallest aquatic plants available, making it a popular choice for the foreground of an aquarium. Don't be fooled by its small size; it can be a bit tricky. It is considered 'medium difficulty' mainly because its growth is extremely slow. This means you'll need a lot of patience to see it fill in and form the green carpet it's known for. While it can survive in a low-tech tank, it truly looks its best with good lighting and nutrients. Since it's a 'root feeder,' it pulls most of its food from the gravel or sand. To keep it happy, you should use a special nutrient-rich aquarium soil or add 'root tabs' (little fertilizer capsules) under the substrate near the plants. When you first plant it, or if your water conditions change suddenly, it might 'melt,' where all its leaves die back. This is normal for this type of plant! As long as the root is healthy, it will slowly grow new leaves that are better suited to your tank. Its slow growth means less trimming, making it a great 'set it and forget it' carpet once it's finally established.
Aquarium Building Information
Max Height
3-10 cm
Placement
Carpet
Substrate
Sand, Gravel, Soil
Attachment Method
Substrate (roots in substrate)
Growth Requirements
Lighting
Medium - High
Growth
Very Slow
CO2 Requirements
Low
Water Flow
Low Flow
plants.aquariumBenefits
Oxygen Production
Low
Waste reduction
Low
Generate Printable Card
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