Origin
Found in slow-moving tributaries of the Amazon and Orinoco River basins across Colombia and Venezuela. Prefers clear water with sandy or silty substrates and submerged wood.

Visual & Behavioral Appeal
Slender, almost leaf-like body with extended pectoral fins and a whip-like tail. Males develop bristles on the snout. Their motion is calm and gliding—elegant and non-intrusive.

Purpose
Algae and biofilm grazer, helping keep hardscape and leaf surfaces clean. Adds unusual shape and flow to the aquarium. Blends seamlessly into natural aquascapes.

Importance
An excellent centerpiece bottom-dweller for planted or blackwater tanks that avoids disturbing substrate or plants. Appreciated for both utility and appearance.

Included Resources
Needs fine sand or soft substrate, driftwood, and abundant surface area for grazing. Well-oxygenated water with moderate flow is important. Tanks should be mature with established biofilm.

Best Use Cases
South American river biotopes, aquascaped community tanks, and peaceful Amazon-themed layouts. Often housed with small tetras, Apistogramma, and Corydoras.

Conservation Context
Wild-caught populations may be impacted by habitat degradation and overcollection. Seek captive-bred individuals to reduce environmental strain.

Ideal Aquatic Species
• Cardinal and rummy nose tetras
• Apistogramma and Geophagus
• Hatchetfish and pencilfish
• Corydoras and Otocinclus
• Dwarf shrimp (with caution)

Region (A)
• Latitude: 3.9285° N
• Longitude: -67.0656° W
(Upper Orinoco, Amazonas state, Venezuela)

Region (B)
• Latitude: -3.1349° S
• Longitude: -60.0217° W
(Near Manaus, Central Amazon Basin, Brazil)