Royal Whiptail Catfish - (No Online Purchases)

Name:
Royal Whiptail Catfish

Scientific Name:
Sturisoma panamense (also listed in newer taxonomy asSturisomatichthys panamensis) 

Description:
An elegant, unusual suckermouth catfish with a long, slender body, prominent dorsal fin and distinctive trailing tail filaments. Royal Whiptails are peaceful bottom dwellers and spend much of their time resting on wood, rocks and other surfaces while grazing on algae and biofilm. 

Origin:
Panama, Colombia and surrounding north-western South American river systems. 

pH:
Approximately6.5–7.5

Temperature:
Around23–28°C 

Adult Size:
Approximately18–20 cm, with the long tail filaments adding to their impressive appearance.

Lifespan:
Approximately8–12 years with good aquarium care. 

Food:
Primarily a plant and biofilm grazer. Feed quality algae wafers, spirulina/vegetable-based sinking foods and fresh vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber and spinach. Small amounts of protein-rich frozen foods can be offered occasionally. 

Compatibility:
Very peaceful and well suited to community aquariums with other non-aggressive fish. Good tank mates include peaceful tetras, rasboras, Corydoras and other calm community species. Avoid aggressive or overly boisterous fish that may damage their delicate fins and long tail filaments. 

Habitat:
Best kept in a mature aquarium withclean, well-oxygenated water and good water movement. Provide driftwood, smooth rocks, plants and plenty of surfaces for natural algae and biofilm to develop. Stable water quality and regular maintenance are important for this species.