Red Lizard Whiptail Catfish - Rineloricaria sp

Red Whiptail Catfish - Rineloricaria sp approx. 6-7cm Maximum Standard Length 3.8" (9.5cm). Minimum Tank Size A pair could be kept in a tank as small as 18" x 15" x 12" (45cm x 37.5cm x 30cm) - 53 litres. Larger quarters would be required for a group. Tank Setup A biotope setup can consist, very simply, of a layer of sand over which is scattered a layer of dried leaves (oak and beech are non-toxic and work particularly well). Some twisted branches (again, beech is good) and the occasional rounded stone can be used for effect. Provide some rock or wood caves, or lengths of pvc piping to act as potential spawning sites. It's equally at home in a well-planted tank, although in either setup it won't appreciate very bright lighting. Temperature 77-82°F (25-28°C). pH Range 6.0-8.0 Hardness 5-20°H Diet Feeds on aufwuchs and small aquatic crustaceans in nature. In the aquarium it proves omnivorous and will accept both sinking dried foods, vegetable matter (including blanched spinach, courgette, kale etc.) and live and frozen fare such as bloodworm or daphnia. Compatibility One of the most peaceful catfish around, these can be combined with many other species. In a biotope setup, good tankmates include small characins, Apistogramma, Corydoras and other quiet Loricariids. However, it can be kept in most communities of peaceful fish. Don't keep it with anything too vigorous or aggressive as it will become very retiring, and will easily be out-competed for food. It's not territorial unless spawning and is best kept in a small group.