Tonina fluviatilis
Scientific name: Tonina fluviatilis
Family: Eriocaulonaceae
Usual maximum size in aquariums: 5 - 35 cm (1.97 - 13.78 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 5 - 7.5
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 0 - 12°N (0 - 214.29ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 20 - 30 °C (68 - 86°F)
Reproduction of the plant: Cuttings
Origin (in the wild): South America
How fast these plants grow: Normal
Recommended substrate: Fine gravel
Demands on lighting: Medium
Ideal placement in a fish tank: Background
Family
Eriocaulonaceae
Common Name
Star Grass
Propagation
Tonina fluviatilis reproduces primarily through cuttings. To propagate, cut healthy side shoots or stems from the main plant, ensuring that the tops are well-trimmed. The cuttings can then be replanted into the substrate to develop their own root systems. With proper care, the plant will grow bushier and continue to thrive. Regular propagation ensures a fuller, more attractive appearance in the aquarium. When trimming or propagating, it's essential to avoid damaging the delicate stems, as this can lead to dieback.
Difficulty
High Difficulty. Tonina fluviatilis is known for its demanding care requirements, making it best suited for experienced aquarists. It requires specific water conditions, including soft, acidic water with a stable pH between 5 and 7.5. Maintaining consistent levels of CO₂ and providing nutrient-rich substrates are key to ensuring the plant's health. This species also thrives under bright lighting and requires a regular maintenance routine. Inadequate CO₂ levels or poor water conditions can result in poor growth, discoloration, or dieback.
Short Description
Native to South America, Tonina fluviatilis, commonly known as Star Grass, is a striking aquatic plant that adds a unique visual element to aquascapes with its star-shaped leaves and bright green color. It can reach heights of 35 cm (13.78 inches) in optimal conditions, making it ideal for background placement in tanks. However, this plant is known for its challenging care requirements, demanding soft, acidic water, and high-intensity lighting to grow successfully. It is particularly sensitive to water chemistry changes and thrives best with consistent CO₂ supplementation. While Tonina fluviatilis can grow under medium lighting, higher light levels are recommended for optimal health and appearance. Under lower light, the plant may grow leggy, with a paler color, whereas higher light intensifies its vibrant green color and compact growth. It grows at a normal pace but requires careful attention to detail to maintain its beauty.
Maintenance and Care
Tonina fluviatilis prefers soft, acidic water with a pH range of 5 to 7.5 and can tolerate water hardness from 0 to 12°N (0 - 214.29 ppm). The ideal temperature range is 20 - 30°C (68 - 86°F). A fine gravel substrate works best for this plant, although nutrient-rich substrates are often required to support healthy root development. Liquid fertilizers and CO₂ supplementation are highly recommended to avoid nutrient deficiencies. This species grows at a normal rate but requires high-intensity lighting to prevent leggy growth and promote fuller, bushier growth. CO₂ injection is essential to maintain vibrant growth, prevent deficiencies, and ensure the plant thrives in nutrient-poor conditions.
Water flow should be moderate, as too strong a current can damage the delicate leaves. In terms of pruning, regular trimming is necessary to manage its height and encourage bushier, more compact growth. When trimming, use sharp, sterilized scissors to avoid damaging the stems. Careful attention to water parameters, lighting, CO₂ levels, and regular water changes will ensure that Tonina fluviatilis remains healthy and vibrant in the aquarium. Signs of nutrient deficiencies include yellowing leaves or slowed growth, indicating the need for more fertilizers or CO₂.
Compatibility
This plant is highly compatible with peaceful fish species and works well in aquascapes designed to mimic natural South American biotopes. Due to its sensitivity to water conditions, Tonina fluviatilis should be kept in stable tank environments with consistent water quality. It is best suited for tanks with minimal disruption from fish that may nibble on delicate plants. Herbivorous fish should be avoided, as they can easily damage the fragile leaves. This plant is ideal for advanced aquarists looking to create a lush, vibrant background in planted aquariums, where its fine, star-shaped leaves can shine as a focal point.
Submersion and Aquascaping
Fully submersible, Tonina fluviatilis is highly valued in aquascaping for its unique aesthetic and suitability for background planting. Its delicate, needle-like leaves form a striking contrast with other plants, adding depth and texture to the aquarium. Due to its demanding care requirements, Tonina fluviatilis is best suited for aquarists who can provide stable water conditions and bright lighting. Its vibrant green color and unique leaf structure make it a standout plant for aquascapes designed to mimic natural South American biotopes or high-tech planted tanks.
This plant is often used in aquascaping styles such as Dutch-style tanks, where its fine leaves and structured growth pattern can provide vertical interest. It can also be incorporated into Iwagumi aquascapes for textural contrast against rocks and hardscape. When placed in well-maintained setups, Tonina fluviatilis offers a visually appealing, lush addition to any aquarium.