Antenna Armored Catfish

About

The Antenna Armored Catfish (Ancistrus sp.) is a notably flat-bodied, broad-headed loricariid native to the middle rio Xingu in Pará state, Brazil. A river system well known for producing fish with demanding and specific care requirements. That specialization carries over into the aquarium, where this species is best suited to intermediate or experienced keepers who can meet its need for well-oxygenated, somewhat acidic water with decent current. It is not a fish to drop into a general community tank and forget about. Like other Ancistrus, males carry distinctive fleshy tentacles on the snout, and there is an interesting hypothesis that these growths actually mimic juvenile fish to attract spawning females. Males are territorial toward one another, so any tank housing multiple individuals should offer a cave or refuge for each fish. When selecting specimens at a shop, always look for a rounded belly and clear, unsunken eyes. Emaciation on import is a real concern with this species. Also be cautious when netting them, as the cheek spines and pectoral fins can snag mesh easily. Breeding is rarely accomplished in the hobby and requires a dedicated setup, but the effort can pay off: this is a long-lived catfish, with individuals potentially reaching well over a decade in good conditions.