[vegasMatt]

Looking to build a new 40L that will include several crypt varieties. There are many posts asking, "I use nutrified substrate/root tabs; do I need to dose?" but I am looking for feedback re the inverse:

Will these crypts grow in inert substrate, if the water is macro/microd appropriately?

c. spiralis (much experience)
c. lutea (none)
c. parva (none)
c. undulata (none)

(yes I am boring. Even my wife as accepted it, or so she tells me on the way to "ladies night." Still, if some of you nuclear astrocryptocists can't help yourselves and must recommend varieties, fire away)

Spiralis is a resounding yes, as evidenced by a Mini-L tank full of cherries that I kept for about five years, with ADA decorative sand for substrate (Orinoco or Nile, I can't remember). Obviously they did not flourish like their brothers in my 20L with Fluorite/Fluorite sand, but they spread and grew slow and that's OK. Not trying to win any blue ribbons here.

Your experiences would be welcome. Thanks!

 

[denske]

Absolutely, i would just add root tabs at the locations of the crypts along with the dry ferts in the water column. Crypts are heavy root feeders.

 

[dasob85]

I've done it with most of the varieties you mentioned. You can scroll through my journal for pics. I did put down 4 root tabs at the start of the tank but never after. Dosed water column ferts

 

[HybridHerp]

I think you can do it, but why not mix it up with different crypts? There are sooooo many wendtii varieties, there is usteriana, there is nurrii, there are others as well if you feel like spending more on crypts.

 

[vegasMatt]

Thanks all for the replies.

dasob85, your 40 project is brilliant! If I can pull something a tenth as nice, I will be thrilled. (And while I have always wanted cories, there is a cranky old red-tailed shark who has dibs on the new place.)

Why not other crypts? Cuz I have an advanced and incurable case of Screws Things Up. Four crypts plus some other flora is plenty of moving parts right now. Hope to be back here asking for recommendations in a few months.

 

[dasob85]

Thanks. I like crypts now since they dont require trimming Good luck with your tank

 

[PlantedRich]

Thanks all for the replies.

Why not other crypts? Cuz I have an advanced and incurable case of Screws Things Up. Four crypts plus some other flora is plenty of moving parts right now. Hope to be back here asking for recommendations in a few months.

It's a wise man who is willing to admit he wants to do what HE wants to do because he feels safer.