All fish / Loricariidae

Melini Whiptail Catfish

Rineloricaria melini

Also known as l-010a, l010a, red lizard catfish, melini whiptail, whiptail catfish, red whiptail

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This is a slim, flattened armoured catfish with a long whip-like tail and reddish-brown body crossed by darker saddles. It is kept as a calm, interesting bottom dweller that suits soft-water community tanks with sand and wood.

Care at a glance

Care level

Moderate

Temperament

Peaceful

Adult size

11 cm

Temperature

24 to 28 °C

pH

5.5 to 7.2

Smallest tank

80 litres

Keep as

Pair or small group

Diet

Omnivore: sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, bloodworm and other frozen foods

Swims

Bottom of the tank

Lifespan

8 to 10 years

Water

Freshwater

Wild range

Upper Rio Negro basin, Brazil and Venezuela

Breeding

Males guard eggs laid in tubes or caves and develop bristles on the head when in condition. Spawning is fairly achievable in captivity with clean, well-oxygenated water and good feeding, though fry need fine foods.

Good to know

Often sold under the L-number L010a and easily confused with Rineloricaria sp. 'red'; it needs good water movement and is outcompeted for food by boisterous tankmates.