Tucanoichthys Tucano

Datasheet

General Description

Tucanoichthys Tucano is a sought-after species in the aquarium hobby, characterized by an adult size of less than 1.7cm SL. It is the only member of its genus and showcases a dark lateral stripe, narrow jaws with small, acute teeth, and specific anatomical features setting it apart from other characids. This species evolved through miniaturization, a process where sexually mature adults reach a significantly reduced size, typical of bony fishes in the Characiformes order. Tucanoichthys Tucano is a part of the diverse Characiformes order, characterized by approximately 2000 valid species across 19 families, often found in still or slow-moving waters, particularly in nutrient-poor habitats like forest streams.

Aquarium Setup

Tucanoichthys Tucano thrives in a well-structured aquarium setup with sandy substrate, driftwood, and dried leaf litter for a natural environment. The tank should have dim lighting and include aquatic plant species such as Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, or Cryptocoryne spp. Floating vegetation like Ceratopteris spp. is beneficial. Maintaining acidic conditions with low hardness levels is essential for breeding, requiring soft water that can be acidified if needed. It is crucial to avoid introducing this species into biologically-immature tanks and maintain stable water conditions.

Behaviour

Known for its peaceful demeanor with other species, Tucanoichthys Tucano is not ideal for community tanks due to its small size and specific care needs. It displays territorial behavior, with males establishing temporary territories and engaging in sporadic sparring. Although gregarious, it is a shoaling species rather than schooling, thriving in groups of 8-10 individuals for enhanced activity and reduced shyness. It can serve as a dither fish for Apistogramma spp. and other dwarf cichlids, as it occupies middle-to-upper tank regions.

Feeding and Diet

This species is likely a micropredator in its natural habitat, feeding on tiny invertebrates and zooplankton. In an aquarium, Tucanoichthys Tucano accepts dried foods but should also be offered small live or frozen prey like Artemia nauplii, Daphnia, Moina, or grindal worms regularly. The introduction of live and frozen fare enriches its diet, promoting optimal health and coloration.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction in Tucanoichthys Tucano can occur in a well-structured aquarium without intervention, resulting in the appearance of fry. Males create temporary territories and guard the eggs until hatching, with fry displaying iridescent bluish-green coloration. Adult males exhibit more intense coloration than females, especially in the dorsal, caudal, and anal fins. Mature females may appear rounder-bodied, particularly when gravid.

Habitat and Distribution

This species is endemic to the rio Uaupés system in Brazil, specifically found in tributaries around the upper Negro River basin. Tucanoichthys Tucano prefers environments with slow-moving, clear, heavily-stained water, abundant leaf litter, and overhanging riparian vegetation. Sympatric species in its habitat include Ivanacara adoketa, Crenicichla sp., Amblydoras sp., Rivulus sp., and Poecilocharax weitzmani. Additional populations may exist within its distribution range.