For the first time ever we were able to import one of the largest species of Loricarai, namely L. lentiginosa. The magnificent animals are about 40 cm long and thus fully grown. Like in all species of Loricaria they are paternal mouthbrooders. The male transports the eggs that stick together with its moutn until they hatch.
In nature Loricaria lentiginosa occurs in the Brazilian state of Sao Paulo. In the natural habitats of this species the water is pretty cool in the winter (our summer), eg 16°C. Temperature rises in the summer (our winter) up to 22°C. It is very important to consider this when keeping the species in the aquarium.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
