Brachyrhamdia Rambarrani

Datasheet

General Description

The Brachyrhamdia Rambarrani, commonly known as False Adolfoi, belongs to the Heptapteridae family under the Siluriformes order. These fish are small, reaching a maximum size of 5.5cm, and are rarely seen in the aquarium trade. They mimic the appearance of other species, such as Corydoras and Otocinclus, throughout their life cycle. The family Heptapteridae is closely related to Pimelodella, distinguished by the closed posterior cranial fontanelle.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, a tank size of 72 litres or more is recommended. The tank should have a substrate of fine sand and be decorated with driftwood, branches, and dried leaf litter. While aquatic plants are not common in their natural habitat, species like Microsorum, Taxiphyllum, Cryptocoryne, and Anubias can be added. Regular water changes are essential to maintain a clean environment as Brachyrhamdia Rambarrani are intolerant to organic waste accumulation. Water parameters should ideally be between a pH of 4.0-7.0, hardness of 0-179ppm, and a temperature range of 24-28°C.

Behaviour

False Adolfois are generally non-aggressive but may consume very small fish. They are best kept in groups with similarly patterned Corydoras species and in the absence of other benthic species. Brachyrhamdia Rambarrani may not be gregarious with conspecifics, but multiple individuals can coexist in a suitably sized aquarium. They are compatible with larger characids, gasteropelecids, or lebiasinids that can evade predation.

Feeding and Diet

In their natural habitat, Brachyrhamdia spp. primarily feed on benthic invertebrates. In aquariums, they should be offered a diet of live and frozen foods like Artemia, Daphnia, and chironomid larvae, although they also accept sinking dried foods. Maintaining a varied diet is crucial for their overall health.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Although the reproduction of Brachyrhamdia Rambarrani is unrecorded, observations indicate a similar spawning behavior to B. imitator. Mature females can be distinguished by their fuller body compared to males.

Habitat and Distribution

These fish are native to the Rio Unini, located in the lower rio Negro basin in northwestern Brazil. The river system is characterized by blackwater conditions, low pH, and minimal nutrients. Brachyrhamdia Rambarrani coexists and mimics the appearance of Corydoras davidsandsi in its natural habitat, exhibiting a fascinating adaptation strategy.