Whiptail Catfish (Rineloricaria sp.)

Fish in the family Loricariidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.

Whiptail Catfish

Quick facts

Scientific nameRineloricaria sp.
FamilyLoricariidae
Also known asCommon Whiptail, Red Lizard Whiptail (L010a form), Rineloricaria lanceolata, Twig Catfish
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentPeaceful
DietOmnivore (algae, biofilm, vegetables, some protein)
Adult size5 in
Minimum tank size20 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-80°F, pH 6.0-7.6, GH 2-15 dGH

Appearance

Slender flattened brown body tapering to a long thin tail filament; the red-orange 'Red Lizard' is a popular line-bred form.

Difficulty and care for the Whiptail Catfish

Moderate

Origin and habitat

South America (widespread)

Keeper notes

Peaceful and shy; safe with small fish and shrimp.

Log Whiptail Catfish in your reef tank

Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track Whiptail Catfish alongside everything else in your reef.