Sturisomatichthys panamensis
Sturisomatichthys panamensis belongs to the family Loricariidae, which is also known as the armored catfish. The genus name Sturisomatichthys is a reference to the genus Sturisoma to which it is closely related. The genus name Sturisoma is derived from the German word “Sturio” (sturgeon) and the Greek “soma” (body) and “ichthys” (fish), which refers to the sturgeon-like appearance of the fish in this genus. The species name panamensis refers to Panama, the area where this fish was first discovered.
Synonyms: Sturisoma panamense, Loricaria panamensis, Oxyloricaria panamensis.
Description
General description:
Sturisomatichthys panamensis has an elongated, slender body with a relatively small caudal fin. The color of the head and flank is usually brown to gray, with a dark stripe on the side of the back that runs from the snout to the tail. The fins are often translucent, with dark spots on the dorsal, ventral, and anal fins. This fish can reach a length of about 20 to 25 centimeters.
Differences between males and females:
Males can be recognized by the larger beard hairs on the sides of the head (odontodes), especially during the spawning season. Females are generally more robustly built than males.
Behavior and temperament:
Sturisomatichthys anamnesis is a calm and peaceful fish mainly living in the aquarium’s lower water layers. It is not shy and can live well together with other peaceful fish species. It can live solitary or in pairs and is mainly active at night.
Life expectancy:
In the wild, these fish can live for several years, while in a well-maintained aquarium, they often live longer, up to 10 years.
Odontodes
The whiskers in the genus Sturisomatichthys are called odontodes. Odontodes are tooth-like structures that are often found on the head and sometimes on other parts of the body of certain fish species, including the Loricariidae.
Odontodes in Sturisomatichthys
In Sturisomatichthys, the odontodes are often thin, short, and can be numerous, especially in adult males. These odontodes are usually located on the sides of the head and can also be present on the first ray of the pectoral fin and along the caudal peduncle.
Function of Odontodes
Odontodes play a role in sexual dimorphism and are often used during spawning and territorial behavior. In males, the odontodes are usually more developed and can be used to impress females or to scare off rivals.
Biotope
Natural distribution:
Sturisomatichthys panamensis is native to Panama, Colombia, and Ecuador. It inhabits the rivers of the Pacific and Caribbean slopes of these countries.
Habitat:
These fish live in fast-flowing rivers with a substrate of sand and gravel. They are often surrounded by dense vegetation and submerged roots and branches, which provide shelter. They live in a tropical climate with seasonal flooding.
Natural predators:
Little is known about their natural predators, but like many fish in fast-flowing rivers, they can be threatened by larger predatory fish and birds.
Diet
Diet in the wild:
In the wild, Sturisomatichthys panamensis feeds primarily on algae and detritus but also on small invertebrates.
Aquarium Diet:
In the aquarium, they can be fed a mix of plant foods such as algae, cucumber, eggplant, and zucchini, as well as animal foods such as brine shrimp, mosquito larvae, krill, and mysis. They will also eat dry foods such as granules or tablet foods.
The Aquarium
Aquarium Size:
An aquarium of at least 120 centimeters in length is recommended for a pair of Sturisomatichthys panamensis, but a larger aquarium of 200 cm is ideal for multiple pairs.
Aquarium Decoration:
The aquarium should be decorated with plenty of hiding places, such as wood and rocks, and a substrate of fine gravel or sand. Plants can also be added for additional hiding places and to mimic a natural environment.
Water parameters:
The ideal water parameters for this species are a pH of 6.5 to 7.5 and a temperature of 24-30 °C.
Compatibility:
Sturisomatichthys panamensis can live well with other peaceful fish species, such as tetras, guppies, and other small catfish.
Breeding aquarium and conditioning
Breeding Environment:
A separate breeding tank is recommended, with a minimum size of 50 x 50 x 50 cm. The water should be soft, with a pH of around 6.5 and a temperature of around 28 °C. The tank should be well-filtered and equipped with plenty of hiding places and a moderate current.
Conditioning:
The fish can be conditioned with a diet of live and frozen foods such as brine shrimp and mosquito larvae. Temporarily separating the male and female for breeding is not necessary.
The spawn
Spawning behavior:
During spawning, the fish’s colors become more intense. The female lays the eggs on a smooth surface, such as aquarium glass, and the male guards and cares for the eggs by providing them with oxygen. Spawning usually occurs in the morning, and an average of 50 to 75 eggs are laid at a time.
Raising the fry
Hatching:
Eggs hatch after 6-9 days, and the larvae begin to swim freely after a few days. The male tends the eggs until they hatch, but then parental care ceases.
Feeding the fry:
The fry feed on their yolk sac for the first few days and are then supplemented with artemia replacer and finely ground spirulina tablets. It is important to create a good current in the aquarium so that the food reaches the fry.
Particularities
Sturisomatichthys panamensis is a fish that adapts well to aquarium life and is relatively easy to breed. They are peaceful and can live well with other fish species. Providing a well-filtered aquarium with sufficient hiding places and current is important.
Conclusion
Sturisomatichthys panamensis is a beautiful and peaceful fish that is suitable for both beginners and advanced aquarists. They are relatively easy to care for and breed, provided they are given the right environment and food. Their peaceful nature and interesting behavior make them a valuable addition to any aquarium.
Video
Author
John de Lange
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