Lapidiferous Retroculus
Retroculus lapidifer
Family : Cichlidae
Rheophilic cichlid with a streamlined body, adapted to strong currents. Feeds by scraping stones.
Description
Retroculus lapidifer reaches 15-20 cm. Its body is elongated and compressed, with a subterminal mouth adapted for grazing. The coloration is silvery with bluish reflections and a series of dark spots on the flanks. The fins are amber. It is an active fish that lives in groups in current zones. It feeds on algae and microorganisms scraped from rocks. In the aquarium, it requires strong current and highly oxygenated water. It is semi-aggressive towards conspecifics but can coexist with other rheophiles.
Habitat
Region :
Fast-flowing rivers, rocky and gravelly bottoms, clear water
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Minimum tank size 250 liters for a group of 4-6. Temperature 24-28°C, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 5-15, KH 2-8. Omnivorous diet with herbivorous tendency: algae, blanched vegetables, pellets, brine shrimp. Decor with pebbles, coarse sand, roots. Powerful filtration with a wavemaker. Compatible with other current-loving fish (Loricariidae, Characins). Weekly water changes of 30%. Breeding difficult, spawns on hard substrate.
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