Origin
Originally bred in captivity, but derived from Rineloricaria species found throughout slow-moving rivers of South America, particularly Brazil and Colombia.

Visual & Functional Appeal
Its slender, armored body and reddish hue stand out against greenery and dark substrates. The long tail and fins give it a graceful, slow-moving presence.

Purpose
Acts as a peaceful scavenger that gently stirs substrate. Helps reduce uneaten food and light algae without damaging plants or disturbing tank layout.

Importance
Excellent for beginner tanks or planted aquascapes. Its rare coloration and calm behavior make it a functional and aesthetic asset to the lower levels of an aquarium.

Included Resources
Prefers sandy or fine gravel substrate, driftwood, and hiding spots like caves or leaf litter. Does best with moderate flow and high oxygenation. Sponge filters or gentle canisters are ideal.

Best Use Cases
Great for South American biotopes, blackwater aquascapes, and community tanks with peaceful fish. Perfect for tanks with shy species that avoid bottom-level competition.

Conservation Context
Red morph is a captive-developed color strain with no wild counterpart, making it an ethical and sustainable choice for hobbyists.

Ideal Aquatic Animals
• Ember and neon tetras
• Pencilfish and rasboras
• Apistogramma and dwarf cichlids
• Corydoras
• Freshwater shrimp and snails

Region (A)
• Latitude: -3.1190° S
• Longitude: -60.0217° W
(Manaus, Brazil – Rio Negro basin, where wild types originate)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 3.4516° N
• Longitude: -76.5320° W
(Cali, Colombia – Cauca River system, part of the natural range of Rineloricaria spp.)