Peckoltia furcata (L075) Care Guide
Peckoltia furcata is a small banded loricariid catfish from the Ucayali River basin in Peru, with a distinctive forked caudal fin.
Overview
Peckoltia furcata is a small armored loricariid catfish described by Fowler in 1940. It is distinguished from related Peckoltia by an upper caudal-fin spine that is longer than the lower one and by banding in the caudal fin. The species reaches about 12 cm in total length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Peckoltia
- Scientific name: Peckoltia furcata
- Describer: Fowler, 1940
- Trade designation: L075
Habitat
FishBase records Peckoltia furcata from the Ucayali River basin in Peru, with the holotype collected near Contamana. It is a freshwater, benthopelagic species of tropical climates. Members of the genus shelter among rocks and submerged wood.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 120 L
- Temperature: 24-28 degrees Celsius (75-82 degrees Fahrenheit)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Provide driftwood, caves and clean, well-oxygenated water.
Diet
The species is omnivorous. Offer a varied diet of sinking prepared foods, vegetable matter and occasional protein items. It is nocturnal and feeds mainly at night.
Compatibility
Peckoltia furcata is peaceful and bottom-dwelling, and stays hidden much of the day. It suits calm tankmates such as tetras and Corydoras. Aggressive or strongly territorial plecos should be avoided.
Breeding
As a cave-spawning Peckoltia, breeding is considered advanced. Males develop hypertrophied odontodes during the breeding season.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 24 April 2014).