Oxyropsis acutirostra

Scientific name: Oxyropsis acutirostra

Common name: N/A

Family: Loricariidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6.2 - 7

Recommended water hardness: 6 - 18°N (107.14 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 21 - 25 °C (69.8 - 77°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

Oxyropsis acutirostra is primarily an algae grazer. In the aquarium, provide a staple diet of quality flake food and algae wafers. They will also appreciate small sinking catfish pellets. While they will naturally graze on biofilm and algae in the tank, this should not be their only food source. Occasional treats of blanched vegetables such as cucumber or zucchini can be added to vary their diet.

Origin

This species is native to South America, specifically the River Negro and River Orinoco basins. It inhabits slow-flowing areas with sandy or muddy substrates and abundant plant cover.

Sexing

No clear external differences exist between males and females. Sexing this species in captivity remains difficult without observing breeding behavior.

Breeding

There are currently no confirmed reports of successful aquarium breeding of Oxyropsis acutirostra. In the wild, like other Loricariidae, they are believed to spawn in crevices or among submerged roots, with the male guarding the eggs.

Lifespan

The expected lifespan in captivity is approximately 3–5 years, depending on water quality, diet, and tank conditions.

Tank requirements

• Tank size: minimum 60 litres for a small group.
• Substrate: fine sand or smooth gravel; avoid sharp-edged substrate to protect their undersides.
• Décor: provide driftwood, smooth stones, and caves; dense planting helps reduce stress.
• Water: maintain pH 6.2–7.0, temperature 21–25 °C, soft to moderately hard water.
• Flow & lighting: prefers calm water with moderate filtration; subdued lighting with shaded areas is ideal.

Behavior and compatibility

Oxyropsis acutirostra is a peaceful bottom-dweller that does well in a community aquarium. Keep them with other small, non-aggressive fish such as tetras, rasboras, or dwarf cichlids. They should be kept in groups of at least 4–6 individuals, as they are more confident and active when shoaling.

Short description

This small Loricariid catfish, reaching only 5–6 cm in length, is well-suited for aquarists who want an uncommon species with fascinating algae-grazing behavior. They thrive in a well-planted tank with stable water conditions and plenty of hiding places. Their delicate size makes them unsuitable for aquariums with larger or aggressive tank mates.

Pictures

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