PlanetCatfish.com - The genus Hypancistrus

Summary of Hypancistrus

Pronounced

hype an siss truss

Etymology

A contraction of the Greek hypo (meaning less than) and ancistrus, an allusion to the reduced number of teeth (particularly in the lower jaw) found in this genus.

Feeding

Unlike the popular opinion of many other loricariids, Hypancistrus are more carnivores than algae eaters. This is backed up by a small and lightly toothed mouth that indicates they are poor algae scrapers. Provide small and frequent supply of mainly meaty foods such as dry discus food, bloodworm and even brineshrimp with the infrequent offering of flake or algae tablets.

Compatibility

Suitable with most fish, as long as they are not too large or territorial about bottom-space.

Tankmates

Small tetras and other similar small fish. Also Corydoras. Care has to be taken to ensure that they get enough food, as they can be a bit shy and slow to grab food when available.

Furniture

Sand, primarily rocks and optionally driftwood. Caves made out of slate plates, bamboo or PVC pipe.

Sexing

Mature males have thicker first pectoral ray, more pronounced odontodes on the first pectoral fin ray and odontodes on the rear of the body, and typically a wider head. Mature females are wider around the middle of the body, and much less noticeable body and fin odontodes.

Breeding

All Hypancistrus are closed cave spawners. Males trap females in the cave, eggs are laid and fertilised after which the male guards them until the fry are free swimming.

Size

Smallest 60mm, largest 160mm, average 105mm, most commonly 120mm. All SL.

Species

There are 50 "species" in the database

Keepers

45 species (90%) are being kept by registered keepers

New spp. / time