Spotted leporinus

About

Found along the coastal river drainages of the Guianas and the São Francisco River basin, Leporinus maculatus is a mid-sized South American characin that spends its wild life in fast-moving creeks over sandy and rocky substrates. In those environments it hunts invertebrates along the bottom, so expect the same opportunistic feeding behavior to carry into the aquarium. This fish will pick at most things it can fit in its mouth. Like other leporins, it has a robust, torpedo-shaped build suited to pushing through current, and keeping some flow in the tank tends to keep it more active and at ease. Breeding pairs form in densely vegetated areas, with males holding close to the spawning site. An unusual degree of parental investment for a characin, and something worth noting if you ever attempt to breed them. At intermediate care level, this species rewards keepers who pay attention to water quality and tank mates. It can be assertive with smaller or more timid fish, so companions should be able to hold their own. Given a well-maintained tank with some current and space to move, it can live well over a decade.