Banded Leporinus

The banded leporinus has a zebra-like appearance with about ten thick black vertical bands arranged along its bright yellow body. Sold in stores as juveniles a few centimeters long, this fish reaches 25–30 cm in the aquarium and lives a long time. It is strong and fast; when startled it can leap out of the water. Because of its size and temperament, it is suitable only for large aquariums.

• At least 500 liters for a single fish; 150 cm length.
• 23–27°C, pH 6–7.5, soft to moderately hard water; well-oxygenated water with current.
• Sturdy decor (rocks, roots); live plants get eaten.
• A heavy, tight-fitting lid is essential.

Omnivorous. Spirulina granules and tablets, blanched vegetables, frozen bloodworms, mysis shrimp and large granules are suitable.

Aggressive toward its own kind; it is usually kept singly. It may pick at the fins of smaller and slower fish. It eats shrimp and small invertebrates.

Good companions: sturdy species of similar size: large cichlids such as severums and geophagus, large plecos, large catfish, silver dollars.

Avoid: small and long-finned fish, shrimp, planted tanks.