Syngonanthus inundatus Care Guide

Syngonanthus inundatus is a fine-leaved Brazilian pipewort stem plant for blackwater scapes, demanding very soft acidic water, strong light and CO2.

Overview

Syngonanthus inundatus (often sold as Syngonanthus cf. inundatus) is a fine stem plant of the pipewort family with needle-like foliage typical of the family. It is a demanding midground plant for soft-water, high-tech setups. The form was originally marketed as Tonina sp. 'Manaus' before being placed in Syngonanthus.

Taxonomy

Family: Eriocaulaceae
Genus: Syngonanthus
Scientific name: Syngonanthus inundatus
Former trade name: Tonina sp. 'Manaus'

Habitat

Native to Brazil and the broader soft, blackwater rivers of Central and South America. These environments are acidic and low in dissolved minerals.

Tank requirements

Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
pH: 5.0-6.5 (acidic preferred)
GH: 0-4 °dGH
KH: 0-2 °dKH (low alkalinity)
Lighting: high
CO2: required (~20-40 mg/L)
Placement: midground
Height: up to ~25 cm

Cultivation

Strict soft-water conditions are essential, with carbonate hardness ideally below 2 dKH and acidic pH below 7. The plant should not be shaded and needs strong light plus CO2. A nutrient-rich acidic soil substrate, with peat in the lower layer and at least 10 cm depth, is a significant advantage. Growth is medium and the species can also grow emersed.

Propagation

Propagated from cuttings: side shoots or trimmed stem tops are replanted to root in the substrate.