Red-line Iguanodectes

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Lives predominantly in the central Amazon basin (Brazil) and the Orinoco. Found along the sandy banks of slow-flowing rivers surrounded by the jungle, feeding in moderately clear waters.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Geisler's Iguanodectes (Iguanodectes geisleri). Deviates slightly from H. adujai due to its smaller size. It maintains the iconic spindle-shaped (siluriform) body, thin, indicating its gregarious habits as a fast swimmer.

Social Behavior: An extraordinarily peaceful community tankmate. Iguanodectes is a genus that loves to station united in the current, swimming gently in unison. Must be kept absolutely in a school (minimum 8-10 individuals).

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: The color is faint and pearly-greenish. A distinct golden/yellow lateral stripe runs along the flank, subtly marked with black underneath. It lacks the fiery red stripe of the adujai. Barely perceptible dimorphism (males are thinner).

Aquarium Setup: Rectangular aquarium developed in length (min. 80-100 cm / 32-40 inches). Needs an open layout: heavily planted edges with Vallisneria or giant Eleocharis, keeping the central channel totally clear for swimming.

Diet and Feeding: In nature they supplement insects, diatoms, and plant residues falling from the fronds. In the tank it will accept small crushed flakes, but must be kept vigorous by administering daphnia, live or freeze-dried brine shrimp, and small fruit flies on the surface.

Water Quality: Typically Amazonian fish, requires excellent and oxygenated conditions, as well as fresh/soft and acidic water (pH around 6.0). A slight surface water movement will keep it brisk and healthy.

Compatibility and Cohabitation: A "gentle" guest. Completely disinterested in territorial disputes. Coexists with moderately peaceful South American Cichlids (Geophagus, Uaru, Mesonauta), Loricariids (Farlowella, Sturisoma), and other large tetras.

Aquarium Breeding: Exceptional event. Free scatterers that only become active when stimulated by simulations of the rainy season (lowering of temp. and hardness, with recreated rain). Parental care is absent.

Risks and Diseases: Sensitive to nitrate-accumulating bacteria that quickly deteriorate the edges of the long anal fin. They are skilled jumpers: it is imperative to keep the aquarium completely closed with a lid.