Hypancistrus sp. L318
Rio Jari is home to a few different types of Hypancistrus, such as L316, L411 and L318. L318 is found together with L316, but in much lower quantities. With the tightened restrictions for export from Brazil shortly after it’s dicovery, L318 was never a regular import to begin with. It was never established in the fishkeeping community, and is today seemingly gone from the hobby.
Facts:
Name: Hypancistrus sp. “L318”
Trade names: L318
Origin: Rio Jari, Brazil.
Maximum size: 12 cm / 5''
Although L318 is found sympatric with L316, they can easily be distinguished. L318 has a higher, bulkier body shape, larger eyes, less contrast rich colours and narrower lines. It’s more similar to L411, another Rio Jari species. There’s still some uncertainty regarding the link between these two forms, but it appears that L411 grows larger and has an even denser pattern of lines than L318.
They need an aquarium set up consisting of lots of hiding places in the form of rocks, wood and of course specially made caves that suit their measurements. In these the males will eventually guard their offspring. They prefer water that is fairly warm (27-30 C), soft and slightly acidic. Most of all it should be well oxygenated and clean, so a good filtration system and frequent water changes are essential. Among themselves they are fairly peaceful, although males may quarrel for caves and females can sometimes be badly injured or even killed during the breeding-trapping in the male's cave. Males develop longer odontodes on their pectoral fins and on their cheeks, and have broader heads. Hypancistrus are mostly carnivorous, so a selection of crustaceans, insect larvae and fish meat should be offered along with high quality dried foods that also contain some vegetable matter.
More info:
http://www.l-welse.com/reviewpost/showproduct.php/product/333
http://www.planetcatfish.com/common/species.php?species_id=1675