Un peu plus d'informations...

Ancistrus sp. L-309, also known as Green Spotted, is a loricariid valued for its spotted coloration and discreet behavior. Listed under the L-309 number in aquarium nomenclature, this fish remains an Ancistrus sp. form associated with the Rio Tapajós in Brazil. Its sucker mouth and mainly nocturnal habits make it a specialized bottom dweller. This form, offered as wild collected, is considered very rare in the aquarium hobby. It is best suited to aquarists able to maintain stable, well-oxygenated water and a layout rich in shelters.

General species description

Ancistrus sp. L-309 belongs to the Ancistrus group, a group of small South American catfish adapted to life on solid surfaces. The L-309 number is a trade and identification code used for loricariids that are not identified to a confirmed species level in the aquarium trade. The fish stays close to the bottom, attaches to rocks, wood and glass, and becomes most active after the lights go out. Its appeal comes from its green spotted pattern, sturdy body shape and peaceful behavior. It should not be treated as merely an algae eater: its diet must be varied and offered regularly.

Geographic origin and biotope

The indicated origin for this form is Brazil, in the basin of the Rio Tapajós. Rocky sections of this large river may have clear to slightly tinted water, variable current and strong oxygenation. The bottom generally consists of sand, gravel and stones, with submerged wood and rock piles providing shelter. Riverbank vegetation is dominated by tropical forest; aquatic vegetation may be more sparse in faster areas. In an aquarium, moderate flow, effective filtration and plenty of hiding places reproduce its needs better than a bare layout.

Precise location and local name

The available geographic reference is the Rio Tapajós in Brazil. The L-309 code is a practical designation used by aquarists and collectors; it is not a traditional local name. The most common trade name is Green Spotted, referring to the greenish spots visible on the body. To preserve the traceability of wild fish, it is best to keep the L-309 code, collection river and collection information together whenever those details accompany the specimens.

Appearance and physical characteristics

The body of Ancistrus sp. L-309 is sturdy, flattened along the underside and covered with bony plates. Its lower mouth forms an effective sucker, suited to holding onto rocks and grazing surfaces. The most distinctive feature is its green spotted coloration, on a background that can vary with age, lighting and the fish’s condition. The fins are supported by rigid rays, while adult males of the Ancistrus group generally develop tentacles on the head. A length of approximately 12 to 15 cm is a prudent target when planning the aquarium.

General diet

Ancistrus sp. L-309 is mainly a grazer, but its diet should include more than algae growing on the aquarium glass. Regularly offer vegetable-based wafers, slices of zucchini or cucumber, and natural wood to rasp. Sinking foods containing some protein may supplement the diet, especially for juveniles and breeding fish, but should not become the main food. Feed preferably in the evening, when activity increases. A varied diet rich in vegetable fibre and supported by wood available at all times helps maintain good condition.

Essential data

• River of origin: Rio Tapajós
• Local name used: Green Spotted; L-309
• Origin of the scientific name: Ancistrus is the genus name; sp. indicates an unspecified species in the aquarium trade.
• Full-name etymology: Ancistrus comes from Greek and refers to a hook; sp. abbreviates species; L-309 is an aquarium trade code.
• Common and vernacular names: Green Spotted; Ancistrus L-309
• Family: Loricariidae
• Subfamily: Hypostominae
• Name pronunciation: an-SIS-trus sp
• Maximum adult size: approximately 12 to 15 cm
• Water temperature and pH: 24 to 28 °C; pH approximately 6.0 to 7.5
• Waterway appearance and surrounding vegetation: rocky sections, variable current, submerged wood and tropical riverside forest
• Typical tankmates: Heros sp. Tapajos, Geophagus altifrons, Satanoperca jurupari, Cichla pinima
• Temperament and behavior: peaceful, bottom-dwelling, discreet and mainly active at dusk and at night
• Water depth: not specified
• Sexual dimorphism: adult males generally develop longer and more numerous tentacles on the head
• Bottom structure and flow: sand, gravel, stones and wood; moderate to strong current with well-oxygenated water
• Origin status: wild-collected specimens
• Rarity: very rare

In your aquarium

Success with Ancistrus sp. L-309 starts with a mature aquarium offering narrow shelters, natural wood and surfaces to graze. Keep the water clean, stable and well oxygenated, without neglecting regular water changes. Offer food after the lights go out and remove uneaten vegetables. Avoid excessive competition between several territorial catfish and choose peaceful tankmates. The wild origin and rarity of L-309 also make quarantine, gradual acclimation and careful preservation of collection data especially important.