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PlanthardFreshwater

Tonina Belem

Tonina sp. 'Belem'

Also known as Belem Tonina

Plantae›Tracheophyta›Magnoliopsida›Poales›Eriocaulaceae

📍 Brazil

Star-shaped whorled leaves create a unique visual. Needs very soft, acidic water and CO2. A true challenge plant for experienced hobbyists.

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Compatible Livestock

Red Cherry Shrimp

Gentle algae grazers that won't damage delicate leaves and help maintain tank cleanliness

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Larger shrimp that consume algae without harming plant tissue; compatible with soft, acidic water

excellent

Otocinclus

Small, peaceful fish that graze algae and won't uproot or damage the plant

good

Rotala Rotundifolia

Companion stem plant with similar care requirements; both thrive in high-light, CO2-enriched environments

excellent

Bucephalandra

Low-light alternative plant that shares preference for soft, acidic water and stable conditions

excellent

Ember Tetra

Tiny, peaceful schooling fish that won't disturb the plant and prefer the same soft, acidic water parameters

good

Common Diseases

Nutrient Deficiency (Iron/Micronutrients)

Symptoms

Yellowing or pale leaves, stunted growth, loss of vibrant coloration, interveinal chlorosis

Treatment

Increase fertilizer dosing frequency to 3-4 times weekly; add dedicated iron and trace element supplements; verify CO2 levels are adequate (30-40 ppm)

Algae Overgrowth

Symptoms

Green or brown algae coating leaves, reduced light penetration, plant appears smothered

Treatment

Reduce photoperiod to 6-8 hours daily; increase water changes; add algae-eating shrimp; ensure CO2 and nutrient balance are optimal to outcompete algae

Melting/Tissue Necrosis

Symptoms

Leaves become translucent, mushy, or dissolve; plant appears to deteriorate rapidly

Treatment

Verify water parameters (pH 5.5-6.5, GH 2-4); perform 30% water change; check CO2 is not excessive; ensure temperature stability; may indicate shock from parameter changes

Slow/Stunted Growth

Symptoms

Minimal new leaf development, plant appears dormant, leaves remain small

Treatment

Increase lighting intensity to 8-10 hours daily; boost CO2 to 30-40 ppm; verify all macro and micronutrients are present; ensure water temperature is 24-26°C

Tips from the community 💡

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Real experiences, care advice, and keeper notes. Finn learns from these too.

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Quick Facts

co2: required
lighting: high
placement: midground/background
difficulty: hard
growthRate: slow

Water it likes

ph: 4.5–6.5
hardness: 0–4 dGH
temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°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.