Loricaria lata

Fish Details, Description and Information Below:

🐟 Loricaria lata – South American Whiptail Catfish for Sale

The Loricaria lata is a fascinating South American whiptail catfish known for its elongated, streamlined body, armor-like scales, and peaceful nature. This species is a bottom-dwelling algae grazer that adds both visual appeal and practical cleaning abilities to community aquariums.

Native to slow-moving rivers and floodplain areas, Loricaria lata thrives in well-oxygenated tanks with sandy or fine gravel substrate, driftwood, and smooth rocks. Its unique appearance and calm demeanor make it a favorite among whiptail catfish enthusiasts.

🔎 Quick Facts – Loricaria lata

📛 Common Name: Loricaria lata
🔬 Scientific Name: Loricaria lata
🌍 Origin: South America – Amazon Basin and surrounding river systems
🎨 Appearance: Elongated body, flat head, mottled brown coloration for camouflage
📏 Max Size: 6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
💎 Availability: South American whiptail catfish for sale

😇 Behavior & Temperament

🤝 Peaceful, community-friendly bottom-dweller
🌿 Constant grazer of algae and biofilm
🪵 Prefers aquariums with driftwood, smooth stones, and hiding spots
🌊 Adaptable to gentle or moderate water flow

🏠 Tank Requirements – Loricaria lata Care

📦 Minimum Tank Size: 30+ gallons
🪵 Provide driftwood, caves, and smooth rock surfaces
🌊 Gentle to moderate current with good oxygenation
🌿 Works well in planted or natural-style tanks

💧 Water Parameters

🌡️ Temperature: 74–80°F (23–27°C)
⚗️ pH: 6.2–7.4
💧 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet (Omnivorous with herbivorous preference)

🌿 Algae, biofilm, and spirulina-based wafers
🥒 Blanched vegetables like zucchini and cucumber
🍤 Occasional protein: bloodworms, brine shrimp, sinking pellets

🔍 Sexing

Males may develop longer pectoral fin rays and more prominent odontodes
Females tend to have fuller, rounder bodies

📋 Overview Table – Loricaria lata Care

Feature	Details
🌍 Origin	South America – Amazon Basin
📏 Max Size	6–8 inches (15–20 cm)
😇 Temperament	Peaceful
🏠 Tank Size	30+ gallons
⚗️ pH Range	6.2–7.4
🌡️ Temp	74–80°F (23–27°C)
🍽️ Diet	Omnivorous – algae, vegetables, protein
🎯 Ideal For	Planted tanks, community aquariums, whiptail collectors

✨ Highlight:
The Loricaria lata is a hardy and attractive whiptail catfish that serves as both a natural algae controller and a unique display fish, perfect for aquarists who appreciate unusual South American species.