Sturisomatichthys aureum

The Sturisomatichthys aureum, with its distinct appearance and serene demeanor, is an intriguing addition to any freshwater aquarium. This fish, which goes by the name Golden Whiptail Catfish, is distinguished by its long body and delicate fins that move fluidly through the water. It is an excellent choice for community tanks due to its peaceful nature, which allows it to live with other non-aggressive species.

Sturisomatichthys aureum is a fish that can be kept by both novice and expert aquarists because of its easy maintenance. They flourish in well-kept aquariums with lots of hiding places and a soft substrate that closely resembles their native environment. They will remain vibrant and healthy if fed a diet high in algae and plant matter.

These fish are not only stunning, but they also contribute significantly to maintaining the cleanliness of the aquarium by limiting the growth of algae. They enhance the aesthetic appeal and functional benefits of your tank with their gentle and inconspicuous nature, making them a pleasure to watch.

Habitat and habitat

Originating from Colombia, the Magdalena, San Jorge, and Cesar river basins comprise South America.

Possesses many jutting stones, clean, swift rivers, and tributaries; in certain locations, the river flows slowly, creating a large number of backwaters.

They prefer calmer areas, usually near the shore among submerged snags, and dislike strong currents. The constant flow of water is a major feature of their typical habitat, helping to maintain oxygen saturation.

Description

The body has an olive-gold color and is low and elongated. There are two broad, dark stripes on the sides, and two horizontal, dark stripes on the back close to the first dorsal ray. There is lightness in the abdomen. The head is oblong, with a small outgrowth on the snout called the caudal peduncle, which is very long. The upper lobe ends in a long thread on the caudal fin.

The well-developed and tall black dorsal fin is more strongly curved in males. Longer mowers are used if Sturisoma is restrained in comfortable positions on the chest, spinal column, and tail fins. The base of the head is where gill slits are found.

In addition to having skin teeth, the oral sucker’s villi and horny tubercles aid the fish in resisting strong currents and scraping algae off surfaces.

Size:

Women can reach over 25 cm, while men can only reach 20–22 cm.

Behavior and compatibility

Active at night and getting along well with any calm fish that likes to be in the middle and upper layers. It becomes hostile toward other bottom fish in a small aquarium.

Aquarium

Can be housed in sizable aquariums with a minimum length of 100 cm and a capacity of at least 200 liters.

Remains close to the bottom. The aquarium requires snags, thickets of large-leaved plants that form shaded areas on the bottom, and shelters. a lighting that is moderate.

Water parameters:

Outside temperature: 25–29 °C pH range: 6.0 to 8.0 Hardness range: 5–19° dGH

Systematic water substitutions and strong aeration filtering are needed.

Very vulnerable to pollution in the water and soil. When there are more ciliates in the water, they begin to become ill.

Nutrition

Plant foods make up the majority of the diet. Before turning out the lights in the evening, feeding should be completed. By consuming plaque originating from plants (algae) and animals (hydra, bryozoans), they serve a hygienic purpose in the aquarium.

They will take bloodworms and tubifex from live and frozen food, but no more than 30% of it. They obtain the cellulose and ballast materials required for digestion by consuming driftwood.

Sexual Dimorphism

Females appear to have a higher front portion of the body because they are larger and have a strongly curved abdomen before spawning. After maturing, males develop a type of bristle on their head, pectoral fins, and, less frequently, back. This is known as a "beard."

The female’s abdomen becomes distinctly rounder prior to spawning, and the ovipositor is visible.

Able to proliferate for two years.

Aquarium enthusiasts frequently choose Sturisomatichthys aureum, a distinctive and striking species of catfish, because of its tranquil temperament and unique appearance. This fish, which is distinguished by its long body and striking fin structures, helps control algae in aquariums in addition to adding aesthetic appeal. Sturisomatichthys aureum can be a rewarding addition to an aquarium at home for both novice and expert aquarists, provided that it receives the right care, which includes particular water conditions and diet.

Breeding

The spawning aquarium is filled with stones and snags, where the female will lay her eggs. There should be a powerful water flow available.

In the natural world, eggs are laid on plant leaves, in between stones, and between tree roots. Plastic, glass, or ceramic tubes, snags, and holes drilled in sandstone or shell rock can all be used in aquariums.

Sprouting occurs in pairs. Approximately one hundred eggs are laid on the glass by the female. Once she spawns, she is eliminated. The male that is in charge of the eggs removes them from suspension and generates a water current around them.

The length of the incubation period is five to seven days, depending on the temperature; following this, the larvae feed for the next two to four days on the contents of their yolk sac before starting to feed themselves.

Their growth is not uniform. Rotifers and cyclops nauplii are fed to the fry.

Because algae is the primary source of nutrition for fry, it is crucial to prevent temperature drops and to cover the entire surface of the aquarium with algae during the fry’s weakest weeks of life.

The typical lifespan is eight to ten years.

Any freshwater aquarium would benefit greatly from the inclusion of Sturisomatichthys aureum. Aquarists who value both beauty and tranquility in their tanks love it for its unusual appearance and serene nature.

As long as you give them a suitable environment, taking care of this species is not too difficult. A well-balanced diet, lots of oxygen, and clean water are essential for their continued health and happiness. Living plants and driftwood will improve their surroundings and encourage their natural behavior.

The Sturisomatichthys aureum can add a new dimension of interest and elegance to your aquarium, regardless of your level of experience as an aquarist. This interesting fish will flourish with the correct care, providing you with many years of enjoyment.

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