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Cryptocoryne Usteriana
Cryptocoryne usteriana
Also known as Usteriana Crypt, Philippine Crypt
Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Alismatales›Araceae
📍 Philippines (Cebu and Panay)
A large, majestic Cryptocoryne species with broad, heavily bullate (bumpy-textured) leaves in shades of brown-green with reddish undersides. One of the biggest Crypts available, capable of reaching 50–60 cm (19.7–23.6 in) in ideal conditions. Best suited to large tanks where it serves as a dramatic centrepiece or bold background plant. Slower to establish than smaller species but extremely long-lived and rewarding.
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Compatible Livestock
Peaceful algae-eaters that won't damage plant leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness
Small, gentle fish that won't uproot or damage large plants; ideal for planted tanks
Excellent algae control without harming plants; adds visual interest and helps maintain water quality
Excellent companion plant with similar low-light requirements and slow growth rate
Compatible foreground/midground plant with similar care needs and non-invasive growth pattern
Peaceful bottom-dweller that won't damage plants; prefers similar warm water parameters
Common Diseases
Cryptocoryne Rot
Leaves turn translucent, mushy, or blackened; rapid leaf deterioration; foul odor from substrate
Improve water circulation and reduce organic buildup; perform 30-50% water changes; remove affected leaves; ensure substrate isn't compacted; check for anaerobic conditions
Nutrient Deficiency
Yellowing or pale leaves; stunted growth; holes in older leaves; weak new growth
Add comprehensive liquid fertilizers (all-in-one or macronutrient supplements); ensure substrate contains nutrients; test water parameters; increase lighting if possible
Algae Overgrowth on Leaves
Green or brown algae coating leaf surfaces; reduced photosynthesis; leaf deterioration
Increase water circulation; reduce lighting duration; add algae-eating fish or shrimp; manually remove algae; maintain regular water changes
Melting (Emersion Shock)
Sudden leaf dissolution after planting; leaves become transparent and disintegrate
This is normal during acclimation; maintain stable conditions; don't remove melting leaves immediately; new growth will emerge adapted to submersed conditions within 4-8 weeks
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Quick Facts
- co2
- Not required
- light
- Low to medium
- max size
- 30–60 cm (12–23.5 in) tall
- placement
- Background (large tanks only)
- substrate
- Deep, nutrient-rich substrate
- growth rate
- Slow
Water it likes
- ph
- 6.0–7.5
- notes
- One of the largest aquarium Crypts. Requires a tall tank to fully express its size.
- hardness
- 2–10 dGH
- temperature
- 162–180°F (72–82°C)
Legality
No state or federal restrictions on record for this species.
Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and locality and change over time — always confirm the current regulations with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping, or shipping this species.