One could think that this unusual suckermouth catfish – it originates from the Rio Ventuari in Venezuela – represents the juvenile form of a Leporacanthicus, for example L240 or L241. But in fact L280 is a dwarf species that hardly ever becomes bigger than 5 cm. Until now only single specimens appeared in the trade, but our current importation contained a good number of fish; so we hope that a breeder will be able now to breed this charming species and that an aquarium population of Micracanthicus vandragti can be established. There are more than a thousand species of suckermouth catfish, but this one seems to be the best suited one for owners of small and medium sized tanks due to the small size in combination with the attractive coloration.
For our customers: the fish have code 26480-L 280-1 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer