Scientific name: Leporacanthicus joselimai
L-number: L264
Origin: South America / Brazil / Rio Tapajós
Maximum length: 25 - 30 cm
Temperature: 26 - 29 ºC
Diet: Carnivore ~ Omnivore
Taxonomy
Order: Siluriformes
Suborder: Loricarioidei
Family: Loricariidae
Subfamily: Hypostominae
Genus: Leporacanthicus
Species: Leporacanthicus joselimai, Isbrücker, & Nijssen, 1989
Description
The Leporacanthicus joselimai L264 is a medium-sized loricariid catfish within its genus. This species reaches a maximum length of about 25 to 30 cm when fully grown.
It has a pointed and large head. The mouth is equipped with striking, pointed teeth, which contributes to the common name Vampire Pleco, which the genus Leporacanthicus shares.
The L264 is very recognizable by its colors. It has an overall greyish body color with a pattern of dark, black dots. The density and size of these dots can vary between individuals, but they are generally bigger and more numerous than in some other Leporacanthicus species. In addition, young specimens have a white dot or band on the dorsal fin and white dots on the caudal fin. These disappear mostly as they mature.
This species looks quite similar to L263 but the white tip on the dorsal fin is typically absent in mature L264 individuals.
This species is known for its territorial behavior, especially towards individuals of the same species and other Leporacanthicus species. Fights over territory and dominance can occur, which can lead to damaged fins and other injuries. It is important to provide sufficient hiding places and space in the aquarium to minimize aggression.
Due to their striking appearance, especially of young animals, the Leporacanthicus joselimai L264 is a popular fish among aquarium enthusiasts.
Distribution and habitat
The Leporacanthicus joselimai L264 is native to South America, specifically the Rio Tapajós river basin in Brazil.
The Rio Tapajós is a large, clear water river with a rocky bottom. The bottom of this river consists of a mix of rocks, pebbles and sand. The water is generally warm with temperatures fluctuating between 26 and 30 °C.
The L264 lives here in areas with flowing water, often between and under rocks and wood. They prefer areas with lots of hiding places, such as rock crevices and cavities under rocks. They are often found near logs and roots, which provide additional shelter.
Diet
The L264 is an omnivore with a preference for animal food. In the wild, this species feeds on small invertebrates such as insect larvae, worms, and crustaceans that they find between rocks and in the substrate. They are also scavengers, such as dead fish or other animal remains. Although they are primarily carnivorous, they will also scrape algae and biofilm from rocks and other substrate.
I feed my L264 mainly EBO Shrimp sticks, EBO Mussel sticks, and various granules such as Futterdose Krill soft granulate, Futterdose Snail soft granulate, and EBO Insect soft granulate.
In addition, to provide as much variety as possible, I also give EBO Spirulina soft granules and EBO Spirulina tabs in between.
A varied diet is important for the health of the L264 and it is also important to avoid overfeeding the L264 as this can lead to digestive problems.
Aquarium
Due to their size and territorial behavior, the L264 needs a spacious aquarium. An aquarium of at least 120 cm long is recommended. To keep a group, a larger aquarium is recommended.
Sand or gravel can be used as a substrate. In order to feel safe and to prevent fights, there should be sufficient hiding places in the aquarium. It is possible to use rocks, driftwood and breeding caves for this.
The L264 is a territorial fish, especially towards conspecifics and other Leporacanthicus species, so enough hiding places are really necessary if you want to keep a group. It can be kept together with other peaceful, medium to large fish. Be careful with small, vulnerable fish, they can be seen as prey.
Regular water changes and a powerful filter system are necessary. The L264 produces quite a lot of waste, so good filtering is important. Sufficient oxygen is also important for this species. And to stimulate the natural habitat of the L264 you can create a strong current in the aquarium by means of streaming pumps.
The temperature should be between 26 and 30 °C, and they prefer soft to medium hard water. Also dim lighting is recommended as the L264 is a nocturnal fish and bright light can cause stress.
Sex difference
Unfortunately I don't have any pictures of the sex difference of the Leporacanthicus joselimai L264 at the moment. The sex differences are similar to the Leporacanthicus sp. L314.
Reproduction and breeding
This species breeds relatively easily. They breed in breeding caves with the male protecting the eggs until the young hatch between 6 and 7 days. In the following 4 - 5 days they will absorb their yolk sacs.
Literatuur
Isbrücker, I.J.H., & Nijssen, H. (1989).
Leporacanthicus joselimai a new species of mailed catfish from the Rio Xingu, Brazil (Pisces, Siluriformes, Loricariidae).
Aquarium Correspondentie, 19 (4): 66 - 68
