Origin
Native to slow-moving forest creeks and igarapés of the upper Orinoco and Negro River basins, especially in Venezuela and Colombia. Typically found among submerged twigs and leaf litter.

Visual & Functional Appeal
Its ultra-slim body and dull brown tones allow it to disappear in wood-heavy scapes. This fish almost never swims actively, instead perching still like a stick, contributing a cryptic naturalism to biotope-style tanks.

Purpose
Primarily aesthetic—adds authenticity to forest stream biotopes and extreme mimicry to planted layouts. May assist slightly in biofilm control but is not a cleanup crew member in practice.

Importance
Sought after by expert aquarists for its rarity, cryptic behavior, and biotope accuracy. It’s a showcase species for blackwater specialists and South American microhabitat enthusiasts.

Included Resources
Needs driftwood-heavy setups, soft acidic water (pH 5.5–6.5), temp 76–82°F, and low current. Dim lighting with floating plant cover reduces stress. Biofilm-rich surfaces are key.

Best Use Cases
Best in South American leaf-litter biotopes or blackwater aquascapes with no competitive tankmates. Often kept in species-only or hyper-peaceful nano communities with precise conditions.

Conservation Context
Its limited distribution makes habitat preservation crucial. Wild populations may face risks from habitat loss or overcollection, though low demand limits impact for now.

Ideal Tank Mates
• Ember tetras
• Pencilfish
• Pygmy corydoras
• Dwarf shrimp (if water matches)
• Apistogramma (peaceful species only, with care)

Region (A)
• Latitude: 1.3456° N
• Longitude: -67.8902° W
(Upper Orinoco River, Venezuela)

Region (B)
• Latitude: 0.4211° N
• Longitude: -64.8974° W
(Negro River tributaries, Colombian Amazon)