Hemiloricaria heteroptera

A colorful, medium-growing Loricariid known from the Rio Negro, Branco and Solimoes (Amazon) in Brazil, the Leopard or Fine Spot Whiptail remains an elusive and uncommon import in the hobby. In the wild, they are found on fine sand substrate in areas of open, shallow water and are capable of a good deal of color change to camouflage themselves to their surroundings. Like most similar Loricariids, this species is an omnivore which feeds on invertebrates, biofilm, algae and vegetation and should be fed a varied diet of sinking specialty formulas including gel diets and occasionally fresh veggies. A hardy and unique aquarium fish, they will do best when provided with plenty of open space, warm, soft water and some current.