Hypancistrus sp. "L136b" is an undescribed Loricariid variant from the Rio Negro (Brazil). With its dark marbled patterns on a creamy yellow background, it is much sought after by aquarists who love Loricariidae. Small and discreet, it is suited to quiet or special community tanks.

Behaviour & maintenance

This fish is calm, nocturnal and territorial only with its fellow fish. It can be kept alone or in pairs in a tank of at least 80 L. Provide plenty of hiding places (tubes, roots, rocks) to reduce stress and allow natural behaviour.

Feeding

Opportunistic carnivore:

• Protein-rich bottom pellets
• Artemia, bloodworms, chopped prawns
• Special Hypancistrus tablets

Water quality

• Ideal temperature: 26 - 30°C
• pH: 6.0 - 7.0
• GH: 3 - 8 °dGH
• KH: 1 - 5 °KH
• Conductivity: 100 - 250 µS

This Hypancistrus requires soft, stable, highly oxygenated water. Peat filtration possible to simulate natural black water.

Decor & environment

Installs a fine substrate, dark hiding places (tubes, caves) and natural roots. Compatible with hardy plants such as Anubias and Bucephalandra. Lighting should be moderate to subdued.

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota Tip

To encourage reproduction, suggest several tubes closed at the back, slightly warmer water (29°C) and regular water changes. The eggs are laid in the cavity and kept by the male until they hatch.