Leporinus nijsseni CareSheet

The Spotted Leporinus (Leporinus nijsseni) is a unique and intriguing member of the headstander family. Suriname and French Guiana are its natural habitats in South America. The Banded leporinus, a more frequent cousin, develops to a considerably smaller size than this brilliantly patterned species (leporinus fasciatus). It's a tranquil species that makes a great complement to a medium to big aquarium.

With other fish of comparable size, the Spotted Leporinus is normally tranquil. As a youngster, it is moderately gregarious, but adults need a lot of room in the tank to cohabitate. This species will most likely feed on relatively tiny crustaceans, thus small shrimp, crabs, or crayfish should not be housed with it. It's a tough species as long as it's given enough of room in a well-kept aquarium. The Spotted Leporinus, like other headstanders, is a good jumper, thus its aquarium must have a tight cover.

The Spotted Leporinus eats everything. It will consume algae in the aquarium, but decorative plants may also be eaten. It needs certain meaty meals but should not be given a diet heavy in animal protein.

Requirements for keeping Leporinus nijsseni

Temperature: 68° - 82° F (20° - 28° C)
pH: 5.0 - 7.5
Minimum tank size: 40-50 gallons for a single specimen. 75+ gallons for multiple specimens
Origin: Tank-Bred, but indigenous to Suriname and French Guiana, South America
Average adult size: Up to 6.7 inches