• Common Name(s): Red Cryptocoryne, Red Undulated Crypt
• Scientific Name: Cryptocoryne undulata 'Red'
• Visual Description: This variety boasts elongated, wavy leaves that range from deep green to bronze, with a prominent reddish underside. The leaves can develop more vivid red hues under optimal lighting conditions, adding a striking contrast to the green hues commonly found in aquariums.

Growing Conditions

• Light Requirements: Low to medium; this plant thrives under moderate lighting but can adapt to lower light conditions, where it might show less intense red coloring.
• Water Requirements: Freshwater, prefers stable water conditions with minimal fluctuations in pH and hardness.
• Temperature Range: 22°C to 28°C
• Humidity Preferences: Fully submerged conditions, can tolerate slightly emersed setups if humidity is high.

Planting & Care

• Substrate Preferences: Does best in a nutrient-rich substrate, which supports root development and overall plant health.
• Fertilization Needs: Low to moderate; benefits from root tabs or liquid fertilizers tailored to crypt plants, especially those with iron for enhancing leaf color.
• Propagation Methods: Propagates through runners or by dividing the root system during replanting.
• Pruning/Tidying Up: Generally low maintenance in terms of pruning, but removing old or decaying leaves will help maintain plant health and aesthetic appeal.

Placement

• Aquarium Placement: Ideal as a mid-ground plant, its vibrant leaves provide a beautiful backdrop for smaller, foreground plants.
• Attachment: Not applicable
• Spacing Requirements: Space plants about 5-10 cm apart to allow for growth and spread.

Compatibility

• Aquarium Compatibility: Compatible with a wide range of fish and invertebrate species, particularly those that do not disturb the substrate significantly.
• Pest/Disease Resistance: Resilient to common aquatic diseases, but susceptible to crypt melt if water conditions change drastically.

Special Requirements or Tips

• Special Care Instructions: Stable water parameters are crucial to prevent crypt melt — sudden changes in water conditions can cause the plant to lose its leaves, although it typically regrows them.
• Seasonal Care: Minimal; as long as water conditions are stable, the plant requires little seasonal adjustment.

Ecological Impact

• Invasiveness: Non-invasive when confined to aquarium settings.
• Benefit to Wildlife: Provides excellent shelter and foraging ground for fry and small invertebrates.