The Nannoptopoma sp. "Peru Orange," commonly known as the Orange Zebra Otocinclus or Robocop Otocinclus, is a rare and visually striking dwarf suckermouth catfish native to the upper Rio Nanay in Peru. This species is distinguished by its unique zebra-like pattern and a vibrant red ring around its eyes, setting it apart from other Nannoptopoma species.
Physical Characteristics:
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Size: Reaches up to 5 cm (2 inches) in length.
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Appearance: Features a distinctive zebra pattern with a prominent red ring around the eyes.
Natural Habitat:
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Location: Inhabits streams with slow to moderate currents and muddy to sandy bottoms in the upper Rio Nanay region.
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Behavior: Spends considerable time grazing on submerged driftwood and vegetation.
Aquarium Care:
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Tank Setup: Requires a well-maintained aquarium with clean, well-oxygenated water. Densely planting the tank with large-leafed aquatic plants, incorporating smooth rocks and bogwood, and using a layer of rounded gravel substrate is recommended. Adding dried leaf litter can also provide additional grazing surfaces.
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Water Parameters: Prefers temperatures between 26-28°C (79-82°F) and a pH of 6.5-6.8.
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Social Behavior: A peaceful, schooling species that thrives in groups of at least six. Compatible with other small, peaceful fish and invertebrates sharing similar water conditions. Caution is advised with very small dwarf shrimp fry, as they might be inadvertently consumed while scavenging.
Diet:
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Primary Food: Primarily herbivorous, feeding on algae present in the aquarium.
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Supplementary Feeding: If algae is insufficient, supplement with fresh vegetables like romaine lettuce, cucumber, or zucchini, as well as algae wafers or vegetable-based flake foods.
Breeding:
- There are no documented records of successful captive breeding for this species. The fry are believed to be exceptionally small, necessitating an ample supply of algae and other green matter for proper growth.
Additional Considerations:
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Sensitivity: This species can be delicate, especially during shipping and acclimation. Ensuring a stable environment with abundant food is crucial for their well-being.
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Taxonomy: Previously, this species has been referred to as Hypoptopoma sp. "Orange," but the correct genus is Nannoptopoma.
