Once more we were able to import another catfish gem: L95, a scientifically undescribed species of the genus Pseudorinelepis, which is very closely related to P. genibarbis.
Our specimens come from the Takutu river in the upper Rio Branco basin. These gorgeous fishes are collected mostly in relative large specimens, because the juveniles are not as attractively coloured. L 95 can probably reach a maximum length of 40 cm, are imported from 15 cm length upwards and our recently imported fish are about 18 to 25 cm long.
Pseudorinelepis are famous for their ability to swallow air. This behaviour replaces the swimming bladder, which is reduced in Loricariids so that is has no function anymore. Pseudorinelepis like to swim in an upside-down postion. This is absolutely normal and no reason for concern.
The fish are omnivorous, but main emphasis is plant material.
For our customers: the fish have code 26480-L 095-5 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale market.
Lexicon: Pseudorinelepis: from ancient Greek, means “false Rinelepis” (Rinelepis is another genus of Loricariids); genibarbis: from ancient Greek, means “with a hairy cheek”. omnivorous: a species that feeds on anything, without specialization.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
