Black Banded Leporinus - Leporinus fasciatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide
Table of contents
Introduction
A quick YouTube search for the Black Banded Leporinus (Leporinus fasciatus) uncovers some, how can we say, less-than-flattering opinions on this so-called "Villain" of the fishkeeping hobby.
Yet, after keeping this species on and off over the past 30-plus years, the harsh online reputation doesn't match our personal experience while keeping this fish in our fish room.
Is that to say they are the most peaceful, unsung heroes of the aquarium, and you can house them with, let's say, nanofish? No, Yet their demeanour is far less aggressive compared to the fiery nature of many cichlids. So why unfairly criticize this particular fish?
As with any fish, choosing the right tank mates for the Black Banded Leporinus is essential. Our experience shows that they peacefully coexist with mid- to large-sized barbs like Panda, Denison, and Mascara barbs, as well as Botia loaches, other Leporinus, sharks, and surprisingly and maybe a little annoyingly, even our cull guppies.
While we certainly wouldn't recommend guppies as fellow tank mates, this evidence helps dispel the myth of the Black Banded Leporinus as some ruthless aquarium terror.
Although this species is robust and extremely hardy, its size makes it best suited for experienced fishkeepers with at least 400 litres or 87 imperial gallon aquariums. We concede that housing them in undersized tanks or subjecting them to overcrowding could stress them out, potentially triggering aggressive behaviour. Consider this: how would you feel if you were perpetually crammed into an elevator with 20 other people? It's a similar scenario for these fish.
If you are considering keeping these fish in a planted aquarium or adding live plants to their aquarium, go back to the drawing board. Our tests have shown that they and other Leporinus will decimate plants in just a few hours, suggesting they thrive on a diet that includes some plant matter. It's best to avoid live plants in their tank altogether and consider other decorations and hiding places which they will take regular advantage of!
A fascinating aspect of the Banded Leporinus is that they develop more yellow bands and a richer orange hue as they age. Some even believe that it's possible to determine their age by counting these distinctive bands.
Black Banded Leporinus Photos
Sexual Dimorphism
The primary method to distinguish between male and female Black Banded Leporinus is to observe their size and body shape. Typically, females grow slightly larger than males and exhibit a more rounded abdomen in comparison to their male counterparts.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Leporinus fasciatus |
|---|---|
| Year Described | 1794 |
| Other Names | Banded Leporinus, striped leporinus |
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Classification | Actinopterygii |
| Order | Characiformes |
| Family | Anostomidae |
| Genus | Leporinus |
| Origins | Guyana , Suriname , Argentina |
| Max Size | 30 cm |
| Temperament | Peaceful |
| Aquarium Level | Middle |
| Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Shoaling | No |
| Best kept as | Loners |
| Diet & Feeding | Omnivore |
| Reproduction | Egg Depositor |
| Average Lifespan | Up to 10 Years |
Water Parameters
| Water Type | Freshwater |
|---|---|
| pH | 5.5 - 7.5 |
| GH | 5 - 20 |
| TDS | 20 - 268 |
| ℉ | 72 - 82 |
|---|---|
| ℃ | 22 - 27 |
Natural Habitat
The beautiful Black Banded Leporinus is native to the river systems of South America, notably the Amazon and Orinoco Basins.
During the rainy season, this fish embarks on an intriguing migration into the lush, flooded forests, navigating through a maze of greenery that transforms their habitat.
Known for their adaptability and resilience, these fish exemplify the dynamic life of tropical rivers, thriving in both fast-flowing channels and tranquil floodplain lakes.
Breeding
Regrettably, there have been no documented instances of successful breeding of Black Banded Leporinus in home aquariums. In their natural habitat, these fish are known to reach sexual maturity once they achieve approximately 15 cm in length. They select a mate and form a pair, engaging in seasonal migration to flooded forests from December to May. Within these areas, they establish nests amidst dense aquatic vegetation. Upon laying eggs, the male Banded Leporinus assumes the responsibility of guarding them until they hatch.
Diet & Feeding
The Black Banded Leporinus is an unfussy eater who readily accepts a wide variety of foods. It enjoys plant-based diets, including algae and leaves, but will also consume flakes, pellets, and wafers. In addition to its primary diet, it enjoys live and frozen foods and will appreciate occasional treats such as garden worms.
Videos
