Catfish - Ancistrus tamboensis

Scientific name: Ancistrus tamboensis

Common name: Catfish

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 8 - 11 cm (3.15 - 4.33 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.5 - 7.4

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 6 - 20°N (107.14 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 23 - 28 °C (73.4 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

Ancistrus tamboensis catfish have a unique dietary requirement: bogwood is essential in their tank as they gnaw on it to aid digestion. Their primary diet should consist of vegetable matter, making algae wafers and catfish pellets ideal options. Fresh vegetables like cucumber or zucchini are also great choices to mimic their natural diet. While their diet is primarily plant-based, they also enjoy occasional treats of brine shrimp and bloodworms, which can be provided to offer variety and additional protein.

Origin

Native to South America, Ancistrus tamboensis is found in the basins of the Rio Tambo in Peru. These catfish thrive in the flowing waters of their natural habitat, where currents are strong, and the environment is rich with submerged wood and plant matter.

Sexing

Sexing Ancistrus tamboensis is relatively straightforward. Mature males develop prominent fleshy tentacles around their snouts, which are either reduced or completely absent in females. This characteristic makes it easy to differentiate between the sexes, particularly when breeding pairs form.

Breeding

Breeding Ancistrus tamboensis is an exciting process. Males select a secure spawning site, often a tunnel, cave, or crevice, to attract a female. After the female lays her eggs, the male takes over, aggressively guarding the nest and protecting the developing fry. He continues this care until the fry hatch and begin to explore the tank. After approximately two weeks, the fry will emerge, and at this stage, they can be fed with newly hatched brine shrimp or crushed vegetable-based food suitable for their small size.

Lifespan

Ancistrus tamboensis has a relatively long lifespan for aquarium fish, typically living up to 12 years with proper care. Maintaining good water quality and a balanced diet is essential to ensure they reach their full life expectancy.

Short Description

Ancistrus tamboensis catfish are peaceful and well-suited for community aquariums. They thrive in well-oxygenated water with a moderate current, simulating their natural environment. Providing hiding spots using bogwood or terracotta pipes is essential, as these catfish appreciate secure spaces. Their peaceful nature allows them to coexist with a variety of other fish species, making them a great addition to any community setup.

Picture

Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.