loricariidae.info

Some species of Loricariidae are so anonymous in their appearance that the reason why they are kept in captivity at all is solely due to the dedication by a very low number of enthusiasts. This of course makes them extremely rare in the hobby. A very good example of such a species is Rineloricaria sp.“Argentina”, a typical yellow/grey species of Whiptail that we haven't been able to place in a described species. The ancestors to the specimens kept here came to Mimbon Aquarium in Germany around 2005/2006, they were imported as R. misiones but according to our Loricariinae mentor Norman Behr, that's a different species. The border area between Argentina, Brazil and Uruguay is a hotspot for the Rineloricaria genus, with 20 described and several undescribed species. We label the fish in question here as Rineloricaria sp.“Argentina” until we find a way to assign them to one of the described species. As an aquarium inhabitant they have proven to be very adaptable and hardy, showing willingness to spawn under a wide array of temperatures and parameters. About 100 eggs per clutch is common. Eggs may be placed at different more or less concealed sites, but typical pleco caves have worked particularly well. The male, recognizable by it's cheek odontodes, guards the offspring in a typical manner. 

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Facts:

Name: Rineloricaria sp. “Argentina”

Trade names: Argentina Whiptail

Origin: North Argentina/South Brazil

Maximum TL: 16 cm / 6''

 

These fish should be given calm surroundings with both open sand areas and shelter under roots and  plants. Water parameters are not very important, but clean, well-filtered water should be provided. Open areas of fine-grained sand is beneficial for the well-being of the species. Rineloricaria are mostly carnivorous, so the diet should consist of a variety of frozen foods (moskito larvae, brine shrimp, mysis, etc) and high quality dry foods.