Chocolate Whiptail Catfish | Rineloricaria lanceolata
Choose the aquarium for the adult animal and its companions. A mature filter and stable, species-appropriate water conditions are essential.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
Brazil, Peru; freshwater habitats. |
| Adult size |
Around 10–12 cm. |
| Temperament |
Compatibility must be checked for the adult fish, not its size at sale. |
| Activity |
Use a consistent light/dark cycle with sheltered resting places. |
| Social needs |
Choose companions sharing its adult size, water conditions and behaviour. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
Adult planning recommendation: 80 litres; floor around 75 × 35 cm. |
| Enclosure type |
Mature freshwater aquarium, unless a different water type is specified below. |
| Temperature |
24–28°C |
| Water chemistry |
pH 6.0–7.5; soft to moderate hardness. |
| Substrate |
Species-appropriate sand or smooth gravel; avoid sharp material around bottom-dwelling fish. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Provide shelter, suitable plants or wood, open swimming space, mature filtration and oxygenation. Fit a secure lid. |
Behaviour & Compatibility
Compatibility must be checked for the adult fish, not its size at sale. Check every proposed companion with our aquatic team and allow extra territory for breeding fish.
Feeding & Nutrition
Omnivorous, feeding on sinking wafers, algae-based foods, blanched vegetables, and occasional protein foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp. A fiber-rich diet with wood present in the tank is beneficial. Feed measured portions rather than allowing food to accumulate; juveniles may need smaller, more frequent meals. Make sure bottom-dwelling or shy animals receive their share.
Routine Care
Check appetite, breathing, equipment and water temperature daily. Test water regularly; ammonia and nitrite must remain at zero. Make regular partial water changes using conditioned, temperature-matched water. Rinse biological filter media in removed tank water, preserving the filter bacteria.
Important Before Buying
Cycle the aquarium before collection. Confirm the current food and water conditions with our aquatic team and acclimatise gradually. Sale size is not adult size; stocking and filtration must account for the full-grown animal.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.
