Tentacle Lasiancistrus

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Rio Orinoco Basin (Colombia and Venezuela). Found in fast-flowing rivers (White and Clearwater) on beds of rounded stones, woody debris and tumultuous surface currents.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Tentacle Pleco / L-092 (Lasiancistrus tentaculatus). Extremely robust Loricariid. The peculiarity is the margins of the snout (in adults) bordered by spiny "tentacles" (branched brush-like odontodes) very different from the fleshy barbels of the Ancistrus genus.

Social Behavior: Mostly nocturnal and shy although it becomes bold in well-furnished tanks. Rather intolerant and gruff towards other bottom Loricariids for the defense of its crevice under the woods.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Complex dark olive/gray-green camouflage pattern with fine irregular light stippling, perfect for blending in on granite. Evident dimorphism in adulthood: the male has a very dense tentacular mask on the opercular margins and a wide snout.

Aquarium Setup: Wood is fundamental. 100+ cm (40+ inches) aquarium with very intricate bog roots, smooth rocks and medium/strong current. Create dark caves (hidden PVC pipes or coconut shells) to which it will guarantee absolute loyalty.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous scavenger. Fierce eater of the organic film on wood (which it literally munches for digestion). Supplement with sinking protein tablets, boiled vegetables (zucchini, peas) and frozen mysis.

Water Quality: Highly oxygenated (oversized filters) and clean water. Produces large quantities of excrement (effect of lignin consumption). Tolerates a pH up to 7.5, but prefers slightly acidic water.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Calm with water column fish. Excellent with Corydoras, medium Tetras (e.g. Emperor or Bleeding Heart) and Dwarf Cichlids (Laetacara). Do not house two adult males in the same tank if space is lacking.

Aquarium Reproduction: Crevice breeders. The male blocks the female in a blind tubular cave (cave spawning). The father will drive away the mother post-spawning, fiercely ventilating the large amber eggs until hatching (7-10 days).

Risks and Diseases: Net Danger. The tentacular odontodes of the males are formed by spiny scales that will inexorably get stuck in the mesh of standard nets, forcing accidental amputations. Use rigid cups/containers to move them.