Southern Mexico, Central America, northern South America, Cuba and Trinidad
Water
freshwater
Temperature
22–28°C
pH
5–6.5
Hardness
0–4 dGH
Care level
expert
Lighting
Medium to high light; CO2 injection recommended
Care
Tonina fluviatilis is a tropical American pipewort now usually placed in Paepalanthus, as Paepalanthus fluviatilis (moved in 2018); we keep the trade name here. It grows as a small aquatic sub-shrub with upright stems and close-set, pointed leaves. Wikipedia notes it is used as an aquarium plant for its attractive leaf shape and the contrast it gives when grown in small groups, but that it is difficult to grow. Like other pipeworts it needs very soft, acidic water, an acidic substrate (aqua soil), good light and CO2. Plant it in small groups in the midground. Water figures are our estimate, not from the sources. Sources: Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toninafluviatilis); Wikipedia, List of freshwater aquarium plant species. Checked October 2026.
Breeding
Not covered by our sources. In practice it is propagated by cutting the tops and replanting them, and occasionally from side shoots.
Compatibility and tank mates
For soft-water planted tanks with small, peaceful fish and shrimp. It will not last in hard water or with digging or plant-eating fish.
Last updated 8 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.
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Items are sold by auction, buy it now or classified advert, by hobbyist and business sellers in the UK.
Buyers pay sellers directly; Aquatic-Auctions does not hold the money. Hobbyist sellers must offer PayPal and may also take cash on collection. Business sellers take PayPal (required) or cash on collection, and bank transfer only once they have a seller rating of 50 out of 100, a company and pet-selling licence checked by Aquatic-Auctions, a bank account in the company's name, and bank details approved by Aquatic-Auctions.
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Live fish and other vertebrates must be sent by specialist live-animal couriers (for example APC Overnight or DX Express), never by Royal Mail. Some invertebrates and plants may go by Royal Mail Special Delivery or 1st Class within its rules.
Banned and invasive species (for example those on the GB invasive species lists) cannot be listed, and sellers must meet the site’s animal welfare standards.
Members must be 16 or over to buy (16 and 17-year-olds with a parent or guardian’s agreement); sellers must be 18 or over.
Business sellers show their address, company details and pet-selling licence to buyers. Seller ratings run from 0 to 100: +1 for each positive feedback, −1 for each negative.
The site includes a free community species wiki with care guides (water parameters, tank size, diet, temperament, breeding).
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