Panamanian Whiptail (Sturisoma panamense) Care Guide
Sturisoma panamense is a slender loricariid whiptail from Panama and Colombia, a peaceful, plant-safe algae grazer reaching about 26 cm.
Overview
Sturisoma panamense is a slender, elongated suckermouth catfish of the family Loricariidae (subfamily Loricariinae). It is one of the more frequently available whiptails in the aquarium trade and is valued as a peaceful, plant-safe grazer. The species reaches a standard length of about 26 cm.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Scientific name: Sturisoma panamense
- Subfamily: Loricariinae
- Common synonyms: Royal Whiptail
Habitat
The species ranges from the Pacific-slope drainages of Panama eastward into the Atlantic-slope rivers of Colombia, with FishBase also listing Ecuador. Like other members of its group it is a facultative air breather, an adaptation to warm, sometimes low-oxygen waters. In the aquarium it appreciates clear, clean, well-oxygenated water and driftwood on which to perch.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L (66 gal)
- Adult size: 20-25 cm (7.9-9.8 in)
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
Sturisoma panamense is a herbivorous grazer. A diet built mainly on vegetable matter suits it: blanched vegetables such as cucumber, green beans and squash are readily taken, alongside the biofilm and algae that develop on wood and surfaces. Animal foods are not a staple.
Compatibility
Temperament is peaceful and the fish keeps to the lower levels of the tank. It is plant-safe and mixes well with calm mid-water companions such as small tetras and Corydoras. Aggressive or strongly territorial plecos are best avoided.
Breeding
It is a substrate spawner with paternal care. Spawning succeeds best in soft, neutral to slightly acidic water; eggs are often laid on a vertical surface in active current, frequently on the front glass opposite a filter outflow. A single male may guard the clutches of several females, with nests numbering over 200 eggs. Females lack the cheek bristles seen in mature males.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List assessed the species as Least Concern (2019).