Hypostomus Minotauros

🐟 Hypostomus minotauros – Hypostomus minotauros

A unique pleco species named for its blunt, bull-like head reminiscent of the mythical Minotaur. Native to Brazil’s Rio Tocantins basin, it thrives in rocky river habitats.

🔍 Quick Facts

• 🧬 Scientific Name: Hypostomus minotauros
• 🌍 Origin: Rio Tocantins basin, Brazil
• 📏 Max Size: Around 12 inches (30 cm)
• 🏞️ Habitat: Rocky-bottom small to medium rivers
• ⚗️ Water Parameters: pH 6.0–7.5; Temperature 72–82°F (22–28°C)

✨ Distinctive Features

• Blunt, deep-bodied head shape
• Large eyes relative to body size
• Faded dark blotches on a lighter background
• Unique tooth crown shape with ellipsoidal medial cusp
• No lateral keels on body plates
• Flap-shaped median buccal papilla

🍽️ Diet

• Omnivorous: algae, biofilm, and detritus grazing

📊 Overview Table

📝 Summary
Hypostomus minotauros is a robust and distinctive pleco with a bull-like head and unique dental features. It prefers rocky streams in Brazil’s Rio Tocantins basin and is suited to aquariums mimicking this habitat.