Whiptail Catfish
Rineloricaria sp.
Water Parameters
About
Catfish with a very dorsoventrally flattened body and long filamentous tail (whiptail). Excellent algae and biofilm eater. Many similar species in the genus, often sold without precise identification.
Behavior & Temperament
Flat-bodied armored catfish with a filamentous tail. Peaceful and unobtrusive, it spends most of its time clinging to surfaces or resting on the substrate.
Feeding
Omnivore/Herbivore - algae wafers, spirulina, cucumber, zucchini, bloodworms, brine shrimp. Scrapes algae and biofilm from surfaces.
Breeding
Spawns in caves or tubes. The male guards the eggs and fans them until they hatch. Relatively easy to breed in captivity.
Care Notes
Fine sand or fine gravel substrate. Smooth logs and stones for scraping. Moderate current. Supplement with vegetables and tablets if there aren't enough algae.
Compatibility
Extremely peaceful. Ideal for any community tank. Completely ignores other fish. May compete with other algae eaters for food.
Quick Summary
| Scientific Name | Rineloricaria sp. |
|---|---|
| Family | Loricariidae |
| Category | Fish |
| Care Level | Intermediate |
| Water Type | Freshwater |
| Max Size | 12.0 cm (4.7") |
| Min Tank | 100 L (26 gal) |
| Min Group | 1+ |
| Diet | Omnivore/Herbivore - algae wafers, spirulina, cucumber, zucchini, bloodworms, brine shrimp. Scrapes algae and biofilm from surfaces. |
| Temperament | Flat-bodied armored catfish with a filamentous tail. Peaceful and unobtrusive, it spends most of its time clinging to surfaces or resting on the substrate. |
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