Hoplogenys Ancistrus

Ancistrus hoplogenys

Family : Loricariidae

FishFreshwaterancistrus

Hoplogenys Ancistrus is a large herbivorous ancistrus, recognizable by its developed tentacles and spotted pattern. It is ideal for large community aquariums.

Popularity
Community fish
classic in freshwater aquarium
Availability
Common in shops
Shop availability
IUCN Status
LC
Least Concern
Biotope
South America
Hors bassin amazonien : Paraná, Orénoque, Andes.

Description

This fish has a robust, flattened body, dark brown to black with yellow or white spots. Males have numerous tentacles on the head, longer than in A. temminckii. The sucker mouth is wide. The fins are large and adorned with light spots. It is nocturnal and territorial. It spends the day hidden in caves or under roots. It is an excellent algae grazer. It can reach 15 cm, requiring a large volume. It is compatible with peaceful medium-sized fish.

Habitat

Region :

Rivers and streams

Distribution :

Recommended parameters

Temperature2428 °C
pH6.57.5
GH515 °dGH
KH310 °dKH
NO₃
≤ 20 mg/L
PO₄
≤ 0.5 mg/L

Care

Difficulty
2/5
Diet
Herbivore
Min. tank
150 L
Min. group
1
Adult size
15 cm
Lifespan
8 years
Temperament
peaceful but territorial
Propagation

Care notes

A tank of at least 150L is recommended for one specimen, 200L for a pair. Provide plenty of hiding spots and driftwood. Temperature 24–28°C, pH 6.5–7.5, GH 5–15. Diet: algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein supplements. They are peaceful but can be aggressive between males. Strong filtration is needed. Regular water changes. Breeding occurs in a cave; the male tends the spawn. Fry are easy to raise with algae and vegetables.

Similar species

Espèces proches, même habitat ou même maintenance

References