Why Crypts Melt
Any change stresses crypts: moving tanks, parameter swings, fertilizer changes, lighting shifts. Leaves rot as plant reverts to submerged form.
New plants from nurseries are often grown emersed (above water). They must melt to grow true aquatic leaves.
What to Do During Melt
DO NOT PULL THE PLANT. Roots are still alive and working. Remove only the completely rotted leaves, leaving stems and healthy bases.
Water changes to prevent ammonia spike from decaying leaves. Do not add ferts yet — plant isn't using them.
Regrowth Timing
First new leaves emerge 2-6 weeks after melt starts. Smaller at first, growing to full size over 2-3 months.
New leaves are true submerged form — softer texture, often darker or redder than emersed leaves.
Preventing Future Melts
Keep parameters stable. Once established, crypts dislike any change. Even a big water change can trigger mini-melt.
Feed with root tabs near the crypt rhizome. Adequate substrate CEC (cation exchange) helps.