Lasiancistrus heteracanthus Care Guide
Lasiancistrus heteracanthus is a loricariid pleco from the Río Napo basin that needs driftwood, caves and clean, well-oxygenated water.
Overview
Lasiancistrus heteracanthus is an armored loricariid catfish from the upper Amazon. It is a mid-sized pleco with a finely spotted body and bristled snout. FishBase records a maximum of about 15.3 cm standard length. The species is distinguished by abdominal plates and dark spots on the dorsal and caudal fins.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Lasiancistrus
- Scientific name: Lasiancistrus heteracanthus
- Common synonyms: Lasiancistrus Pleco
Habitat
The species occurs in the upper Río Napo of Ecuador and the lower Río Napo of Peru. It is a demersal, bottom-dwelling fish of tropical freshwater. As in other members of the genus, it shows facultative air-breathing.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L (53 gal)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
- Provide driftwood and caves with clean, well-oxygenated water
Diet
Lasiancistrus heteracanthus is omnivorous. As a loricariid associated with driftwood, its diet combines plant and algal matter with small invertebrate foods; in the aquarium it accepts sinking prepared foods and vegetable items.
Compatibility
It is a peaceful, nocturnal bottom-dweller suited to community aquariums with mid-water fish such as tetras and other catfish like Corydoras. Aggressive or strongly territorial plecos should be avoided to prevent competition over hiding places.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2014).