Chameleon Whiptail Catfish ( Pseudohemiodon apithanos )
The Chameleon Whiptail Catfish is an exquisitely camouflaged and exceptionally unique loricariid from South America. It's incredible ability to blend into its surroundings and its fascinating natural behaviors make it a prized addition for dedicated aquarists with specialized tanks.
Max Size: These slender catfish typically reach a size of 8 to 10 inches (20 to 25 centimeters) in total length.
Behavior:
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A peaceful and extremely shy species, primarily nocturnal but can be observed during the day in a well-established, dimly lit tank.
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They are masters of camouflage, often blending seamlessly with the substrate or driftwood.
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They are benthic (bottom-dwelling) and will spend most of their time meticulously sifting through the substrate for food or resting motionless.
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Best kept in small groups of 3 or more to encourage natural behavior and reduce stress.
Tank Requirements:
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A minimum tank size of 30 gallons for a small group is recommended, with a larger footprint being more beneficial than height.
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The tank must replicate a riverine environment with a strong, consistent current and high oxygenation, ideally provided by powerheads or suitable filters.
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Fine, soft sand substrate is absolutely essential. This is not optional, as they use their mouths to sift through it for food and can damage their delicate oral structures on coarser substrates.
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Provide plenty of smooth driftwood branches and roots, which they will use for perching and additional camouflage. Avoid sharp rocks.
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Dim lighting is preferred to make them feel secure. Floating plants can help diffuse light.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 75°F to 82°F (24°C to 28°C).
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pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, ideally 6.0 to 7.0.
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Water Hardness: Soft to very soft water is crucial, mimicking their natural blackwater or clearwater habitats.
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Pristine water quality is paramount. They are highly sensitive to nitrates and fluctuating parameters. Regular, small water changes are more beneficial than large, infrequent ones. Excellent filtration (e.g., canister filters) is a must.
Diet:
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Omnivorous detritivores and micro-predators, specializing in sifting through sand for small organisms and organic matter.
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Their diet should consist primarily of high-quality sinking wafers, pellets, and specialized foods for bottom-dwelling fish.
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Supplement with small, live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, daphnia, and finely chopped earthworms.
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They appreciate blanched vegetables like zucchini or cucumber offered occasionally.
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Ensure food reaches the bottom where they can access it.
Compatibility:
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Extremely peaceful and non-aggressive, making them suitable for specialized community tanks.
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Only house with small, peaceful, and non-competitive fish that thrive in similar high-flow, soft-water conditions.
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Avoid boisterous or aggressive tank mates, as the Chameleon Whiptail will be easily outcompeted for food and stressed.
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Good tank mates include small schooling tetras (e.g., Ember Tetras, Neon Tetras), small peaceful Corydoras species, and other small, non-aggressive loricariids that don't directly compete for substrate space.
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Do not house with large or aggressive fish.