Hypancistrus yudja (L174)

This small Hypancistrus, sold for many years under the number L174, was described in 2025 as Hypancistrus yudja. The name is dedicated to the Yudjá people, who live in the region and at one time made a living collecting this fish. It is one of the smallest species of its genus and stays around 8 cm.

It is known only from the deep pools of the Xingu below Altamira; this entire area lies within the zone affected by the Belo Monte dam complex. As a result it is seriously endangered, and its export from Brazil is banned. When buying, always ask about the captive-bred source.

• 80 liters for a small group; narrow, long caves and piles of flat stones.
• 27–29°C, strong aeration and flow.
• A 30% water change every week, low nitrate.

Mainly carnivorous: bloodworms, mysis, brine shrimp and protein-rich sinking granules. It occasionally eats vegetable tablets too. Feed after the lights go out.

Peaceful, shy and nocturnal. Males chase each other over caves but leave other species alone.

Good companions: Cardinal and rummy-nose tetras, dwarf cichlids, sterbai corydoras.

Avoid: Other Hypancistrus species (hybridization), large plecos, greedy bottom dwellers.