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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 72 litres / 19.02 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 4.0cm / 1.57inches |
| Temperature | 25°C / 77.00°F - 30°C / 86.00°F |
| Hardness | 0.00dgH / 0ppm - 5.04dgH / 90ppm |
| pH | 4.0-6.5 |
General Description:At the time of writing, scientific evidence does not support the idea that the various populations of the Biotoecus Opercularis species in the aquarium trade signify different species. However, some minor morphological discrepancies exist, including variations in body depth, fin rays in unpaired fins, and coloration in the paired fins. Another officially described member of the genus is B. dicentrarchus, which is native to the upper rio Negro and Río Orinoco basins in Colombia and Venezuela.
Aquarium Setup:For optimal maintenance, it is recommended to house Biotoecus Opercularis either alone or with small "dither" fish like Nannostomus or Micropoecilia spp. The aquarium setup should include structures like ceramic flowerpots, plastic piping, wood roots, and branches to provide cover. A natural-looking habitat with a sandy substrate, leaf litter, and dim lighting is suitable. Plant species from genera such as Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, Cryptocoryne, and Anubias are ideal for this setup, as they can thrive in dim lighting conditions. Water quality is crucial, with a pH range of 4.0-6.5, hardness of 0-90ppm, and a temperature of 25-30°C.
Behaviour:Biotoecus Opercularis can be kept in groups if there is enough space available. Males typically establish small territories centered around suitable spawning sites, while non-breeding females form loose aggregations. It is advised not to mix this species with other Biotoecus populations. They exhibit biparental substrate spawning behavior, with both males and females actively participating in caring for the eggs and fry.
Feeding and Diet:The species predominantly feeds on small invertebrates such as chironomid larvae and ostracods. In captivity, their diet should consist of small live or frozen foods like chironomid larvae (bloodworms), Tubifex, Artemia, and mosquito larvae. Newly imported specimens may initially refuse prepared foods, but some success has been reported with high-quality, fine-grade foods.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:Biotoecus Opercularis is a biparental substrate spawner, with females displaying pinkish coloration around the abdominal region when ready to breed. Males are smaller in size but develop more colorful and extended fins compared to females. After spawning, parental care continues for several weeks, with the male sometimes showing only loose interest in the fry.
Habitat and Distribution:This species is commonly found in shallow habitats with sandy substrates, leaf litter patches, and submerged woody structures. They prefer environments with slow water flow and water stained with tannins and other organic chemicals. Biotoecus Opercularis is native to regions in Brazil, including Lake Saracá, Villa Bella, and various rivers like Madeira, Tapajós, and Negro. Aquarium trade specimens are often collected from the rio Jauaperi and traded as B. sp. 'rio Negro' or labeled as 'Caicubi' or 'Santarém' based on their collection locations.