Lamontichthys llanero
Lamontichthys llanero was first described by Taphorn and Lilyestrom in 1984. This fish belongs to the family Loricariidae, which is also known as the armored catfish. The genus Lamontichthys consists of six recognized species. The genus name Lamontichthys is a tribute to Francesca La Monte, a well-known ichthyologist. The species name llanero refers to the Llanero people who live on the plains (Los Llanos) near the Andes Mountains in the Apure River basin where this species is native.
Synonyms: There are no known synonyms for this species.
Description
Appearance: Lamontichthys llanero has an elongated and slender body with a flattened head. The color varies from gray to yellowish, with dark transverse bands on the flanks. The fins are brown with bands, and the fish can reach a maximum standard length of about 20 centimeters. This is the length up to and including the caudal peduncle, without tail and filaments.
Fish of the genus Lamontichthys, including Lamontichthys llanero, have elongated filaments on the tips of the pectoral and caudal fins. These filaments can be longer than the entire length of the fish.
Differences between sexes: Males have enlarged odontodes (hairy structures) on the pectoral fins. No specific behavioral differences between the sexes have been reported.
Behavior and Temperament: These fish are generally peaceful and can be kept in groups. They are bottom dwellers and can be shy, especially in small groups.
Life expectancy: Lamontichthys llanero can live over 10 years in captivity.
Odontodes
Odontodes are small, tooth-like structures found on the body of certain fish species, such as Lamontichthys llanero. They are especially prominent in males and are often found on the pectoral fins and head.
Function of Odontodes
- Protection: Odontodes provide physical protection from predators and other threats. They act as armor that helps the fish defend against attack.
- Competition and Mating: In many species, odontodes play a role in male competition, especially during the mating season. They can deter or impress rivals.
- Identification: Odontodes can also help identify the sexes within a species, as they are often more developed in males than in females.
These structures are an important feature of the Loricariidae family, to which Lamontichthys llanero belongs, contributing to their unique appearance and behavior.
Biotope
Distribution: This species occurs in South America, specifically in the Orinoco Basin in Venezuela.
Habitat: They live in shallow, flowing waters with rocky and sandy bottoms. The environment often has little underwater vegetation, but driftwood and rocks are present.
Climate: Lamontichthys llanero lives in a tropical climate without specific seasonal floods or droughts.
Diet
In the wild: These fish are omnivorous, feeding primarily on algae and small invertebrates.
In the aquarium: They should be fed a diet of plant foods such as algae wafers and spirulina tablets, supplemented with small live or frozen foods such as bloodworms.
The Aquarium
Aquarium size: An aquarium of at least 120 centimeters long is suitable for a group. A larger aquarium is recommended for a larger group.
Setup: Use sand or fine gravel as substrate and add driftwood and rocks to mimic their natural habitat. Provide well-oxygenated water with a strong current.
Water parameters: The ideal water parameters are a temperature of 24-28°C, a pH of 6.0-7.5, and a hardness of 2-15°dH.
Compatibility: Suitable tank mates include peaceful characins and other armored catfish that require similar conditions.
Breeding aquarium and conditioning
There are no detailed reports of breeding Lamontichthys llanero in an aquarium. It is known that they spawn on a flat surface, but further details are scarce.
Particularities
Lamontichthys llanero is a rare species in the aquarium hobby and is often confused with other species, such as Sturisoma. It is sensitive to changes in water quality and requires an experienced caretaker.
Conclusion
Lamontichthys llanero is a challenging species for the experienced aquarist. It requires specific water conditions and a well-thought-out setup to mimic its natural habitat. Although peaceful, it can be shy and requires a varied diet. It is important to pay attention to water quality and flow to ensure its well-being.
Video
Author
John de Lange
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John de Lange
