Hypancistrus sp. L-340 Mega Clown
Wild caught origin
| Qty (Stock) | Size | Sex | Unit price (Tax included) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 ½" | - | 59$ |
IMPORTANT
Keeping fish in an aquarium requires an ethical and responsible approach that prioritizes animal welfare. Purchasing fish for an aquarium should never be an impulsive decision. It is essential to understand the specific needs of each species, including water quality, aquarium size, behavior, and diet. Only fish with similar water quality requirements should be kept together in the same aquarium.
A Little More Information...
Hypancistrus sp. L-340, also known as Mega Clown, is a highly sought-after small loricariid valued for its contrasting pattern and discreet behavior. Listed under the L-340 number in the aquarium trade, it originates from the Rio Tomo in Colombia, where it inhabits rocky, well-oxygenated areas. This form is still identified as Hypancistrus sp. rather than by an official species name. Collected from the wild, it benefits from careful acclimation and stable water conditions. Its aquarium rarity is considered uncommon, making it an appealing choice for a specialized aquarium.
General description
Hypancistrus sp. L-340 is a small armored catfish in the family Loricariidae. Like several Hypancistrus, it is most active at dusk and during the night. Its flattened body allows it to remain close to rocks, while its inferior sucker mouth helps it graze and collect food. It does best in a mature aquarium with effective filtration and plenty of hiding places. Its temperament is generally peaceful with similarly sized fish, although males may defend a cave, especially during breeding. Avoid aggressive tank mates or species that compete intensely for bottom space.
Geographical origin and biotope
This form is associated with the Rio Tomo in Colombia, within the Orinoco basin. It comes from tropical freshwater habitat where rocky areas, submerged stones, and spaces between rocks provide permanent shelter. The current is generally stronger in the areas occupied by loricariids of this group, with well-oxygenated water and limited accumulation of organic matter. In an aquarium, efficient circulation, mature biological filtration, and regular water changes reproduce this setting more effectively than stagnant water. Rounded rocks and driftwood provide useful structure and shelter.
Precise location and local name
The stated origin of Hypancistrus sp. L-340 is the Rio Tomo in Colombia. The most commonly used aquarium name is Mega Clown, a trade name referring to its black-and-light pattern. The L-340 code belongs to the “L-number” system, created to identify imported loricariids provisionally before possible scientific description. It is therefore not a species name. To avoid confusion, it is best to keep the name Hypancistrus sp. L-340 together with the Rio Tomo locality in breeding and husbandry records.
Appearance and physical characteristics
Hypancistrus sp. L-340 has a stocky, ventrally flattened body protected by bony plates. Its coloration consists of a pale base marked by broad dark bands or patches, producing a distinct clown-like appearance. The pattern may vary slightly between individuals and according to age, condition, or lighting. The fins also show dark contrasts, while the pectoral and dorsal rays are robust. Its sucker mouth is adapted for taking food from surfaces. The generally accepted maximum adult size in aquarium keeping is about 12 cm.
General diet
Despite its sucker-mouth appearance, Hypancistrus sp. L-340 is not a specialized algae eater. It accepts a varied diet of quality sinking wafers, pellets for bottom-dwelling fish, and frozen foods such as brine shrimp or mosquito larvae. A regular protein component is useful, especially for juveniles and breeding fish, while vegetable-based foods should also be offered. Feed after the lights go out to reduce competition. Remove leftovers promptly: clean, well-oxygenated water is just as important as dietary variety.
Essential data
- Name of source river: Rio Tomo
- Local name used: Mega Clown
- Origin of the scientific name: Hypancistrus is the genus name assigned to this group; L-340 is an aquarium trade L-number.
- Etymology of the full name: Hypancistrus identifies the genus; sp. means an unspecified species within the genus; L-340 is an identification number used in the aquarium trade.
- Common and vernacular names: Mega Clown
- Family: Loricariidae
- Subfamily: Hypostominae
- Name pronunciation: hi-pan-SIS-trus - es-pee el three forty
- Maximum adult size: about 12 cm
- Water temperature and pH: 26 to 30 °C; approximately pH 6.0 to 7.5
- Watercourse appearance and surrounding vegetation: rocky areas, sustained current, well-oxygenated water, and tropical riparian vegetation
- Typical tank mates: peaceful small characins, calm dwarf cichlids, and other non-territorial midwater fish
- Temperament and behavior: peaceful and secretive, mainly crepuscular and nocturnal; males may defend a hiding place
- Sexual dimorphism: adult males generally have a broader head and more odontodes on the pectoral fins and body
- Bottom layout and flow: fine gravel or sand with rocks, caves, and driftwood; moderate to strong flow
- Origin of the specimens presented: species collected from the wild
In your aquarium
To keep Hypancistrus sp. L-340 successfully, provide a mature aquarium with several caves, stable temperature, and high oxygenation. Hiding places should be numerous enough to reduce competition between individuals. Feed in the evening with appropriately sized portions and monitor body condition, since its secretive nature can conceal underfeeding. Prevent waste from accumulating around the décor and perform regular water changes. Because this is a wild-collected fish, gradual acclimation and quarantine are especially sensible practices.
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