Leporacanthicus joselimai “L264”

Order: Siluriformes
Suborder: Loricarioidei
Family: Loricariidae
Subfamily: Hypostominae
Genus: Leporacanthicus
Species: Leporacanthicus joselimai, Isbrücker, & Nijssen, 1989

The Leporacanthicus joselimai "L264" is a medium-sized loricariid catfish within its genus. This species reaches a maximum length of about 25 to 30 cm when fully grown.
It has a pointed and large head. The mouth is equipped with striking, pointed teeth, which contributes to the common name "Vampire Pleco", which the genus Leporacanthicus shares.
The "L264" is very recognizable by its colors. It has an overall greyish body color with a pattern of dark, black dots. The density and size of these dots can vary between individuals, but they are generally bigger and more numerous than in some other Leporacanthicus species. In addition, young specimens have a white dot or band on the dorsal fin and white dots on the caudal fin. These disappear mostly as they mature.

This species looks quite similar to "L263" but the white tip on the dorsal fin is typically absent in mature "L264" individuals.

This species is known for its territorial behavior, especially towards individuals of the same species and other Leporacanthicus species. Fights over territory and dominance can occur, which can lead to damaged fins and other injuries. It is important to provide sufficient hiding places and space in the aquarium to minimize aggression.

Due to their striking appearance, especially of young animals, the Leporacanthicus joselimai "L264" is a popular fish among aquarium enthusiasts.

The Leporacanthicus joselimai "L264" is native to South America, specifically the Rio Tapajós river basin in Brazil.

The Rio Tapajós is a large, clear water river with a rocky bottom. The bottom of this river consists of a mix of rocks, pebbles and sand. The water is generally warm with temperatures fluctuating between 26 and 30 °C.

The "L264" lives here in areas with flowing water, often between and under rocks and wood. They prefer areas with lots of hiding places, such as rock crevices and cavities under rocks. They are often found near logs and roots, which provide additional shelter.

The "L264" is an omnivore with a preference for animal food. In the wild, this species feeds on small invertebrates such as insect larvae, worms, and crustaceans that they find between rocks and in the substrate. They are also scavengers, such as dead fish or other animal remains. Although they are primarily carnivorous, they will also scrape algae and biofilm from rocks and other substrate.

I feed my "L264" mainly EBO Shrimp sticks, EBO Mussel sticks, and various granules such as Futterdose Krill soft granulate, Futterdose Snail soft granulate, and EBO Insect soft granulate.
In addition, to provide as much variety as possible, I also give EBO Spirulina soft granules and EBO Spirulina tabs in between.

A varied diet is important for the health of the "L264" and it is also important to avoid overfeeding the "L264" as this can lead to digestive problems.

Due to their size and territorial behavior, the "L264" needs a spacious aquarium. An aquarium of at least 120 cm long is recommended. To keep a group, a larger aquarium is recommended.

Sand or gravel can be used as a substrate. In order to feel safe and to prevent fights, there should be sufficient hiding places in the aquarium. It is possible to use rocks, driftwood and breeding caves for this.
The "L264" is a territorial fish, especially towards conspecifics and other Leporacanthicus species, so enough hiding places are really necessary if you want to keep a group. It can be kept together with other peaceful, medium to large fish. Be careful with small, vulnerable fish, they can be seen as prey.

Regular water changes and a powerful filter system are necessary. The "L264" produces quite a lot of waste, so good filtering is important. Sufficient oxygen is also important for this species. And to stimulate the natural habitat of the "L264" you can create a strong current in the aquarium by means of current pumps.

The temperature should be between 26 and 30 °C, and they prefer soft to medium hard water. Also dim lighting is recommended as the "L264" is a nocturnal fish and bright light can cause stress.

Unfortunately I don't have any pictures of the sex difference of the Leporacanthicus joselimai "L264" at the moment. The sex differences are similar to the Leporacanthicus sp. "L314".

This species breeds relatively easily. They breed in breeding caves with the male protecting the eggs until the young hatch between 6 and 7 days. In the following 4 - 5 days they will absorb their yolk sacs.

Isbrücker, I.J.H., & Nijssen, H. (1989).
Leporacanthicus joselimai a new species of mailed catfish from the Rio Xingu, Brazil (Pisces, Siluriformes, Loricariidae).
Aquarium Correspondentie, 19 (4): 66 - 68