Golden Whiptail (Sturisoma aureum) Care Guide
Sturisoma aureum, now placed in Sturisomatichthys, is a slender peaceful whiptail catfish from Colombian river basins that feeds mainly on plant matter.
Overview
Sturisoma aureum is a slender whiptail catfish in the family Loricariidae, described by Steindachner in 1900 and now placed in the genus Sturisomatichthys. It has elegant filamentous extensions on the dorsal and caudal fins and reaches about 20 cm in standard length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Scientific name: Sturisoma aureum
- Current placement: Sturisomatichthys aureus (Steindachner, 1900)
- Common trade name: Golden Whiptail
Habitat
FishBase records the species from the Magdalena, San Jorge and Cesar River basins in Colombia. It is a freshwater, demersal species of tropical climates and is associated with well-oxygenated water, submerged wood and leaf litter.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 22-26 degrees Celsius (72-79 degrees Fahrenheit)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 dGH
- Water flow: moderate, well oxygenated
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
FishBase gives a natural range of pH 6.0-8.0 and 5-19 dH. The species does not tolerate very warm water and needs good oxygenation and bogwood.
Diet
Sturisoma aureum is largely herbivorous. A diet rich in algae and blanched vegetables such as spinach and cucumber, along with access to bogwood, suits it; small live or frozen foods may be taken occasionally.
Compatibility
The species is peaceful and bottom-oriented, suitable for community tanks with calm fish such as tetras and Corydoras. Aggressive or territorial plecos should be avoided.
Breeding
Sturisoma whiptails deposit their eggs on flat surfaces such as the aquarium glass, forming a compact mass. The male guards the eggs and fans them with his fins. Spawning is reported around 28 degrees Celsius, with clutches numbering up to about 200 eggs.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Data Deficient (assessed 7 October 2014).