Maximum size : 30 cm

Black Banded Leporinus - Leporinus fasciatus : Complete Fish Profile & Care Guide

The Banded Leporinus (Leporinus fasciatus) is an eye-catching and vividly colored species, highly sought after for its striking appearance. Though hardy, this fish is better suited for experienced aquarists as opposed to beginners. While Banded Leporinus can be peaceful with the right tank mates and water parameters, they may exhibit destructive behavior, such as nipping at fins or removing scales, if housed with incompatible fish. Their large size can also pose a challenge for less experienced hobbyists. To manage their behavior, it's recommended to keep either a single individual or a group of at least six to distribute any aggression among the shoal. Additionally, housing these fish in a spacious aquarium with a secure lid is crucial, as they are skilled jumpers and may attempt to escape. The Banded Leporinus boasts a torpedo-shaped, elongated, and heavy body with an arched back and thinner tail. Their rabbit-like front teeth and stunning thick vertical bands of yellow and black make them truly stand out. 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 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
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	Omnivore
Reproduction	Egg-Layer
Lifespan	7 - 10 years

Water Parameters

Water Type	Freshwater
PH	5.5 - 7.5
GH	5 - 20
KH
TDS	20 - 268

Temperature
℉	72 - 82
℃	22.2 - 27.8

Natural habitat

The Banded Leporinus is a striking fish that call the fast-moving, soft acidic rocky waters of river channels, tributaries, and floodplain lakes in Guianas and La Plata their home. Found mainly in the Orinoco River in the Amazon River Basin in Central South America, these fish are known for their unique migration patterns. During the rainy season, Banded Leporinus will migrate into flooded forest areas, providing a truly mesmerizing sight as they navigate their way through the lush greenery. Their resilience and adaptability are just a few of the traits that make them a true wonder of the aquatic world. So, if you're searching for an awe-inspiring addition to your aquarium, look no further than the Banded Leporinus - a remarkable species that will undoubtedly captivate and enchant.

How to breed the Black Banded Leporinus

Regrettably, there have been no documented instances of successful breeding of 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 a 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 that will readily accept a wide variety of foods. They have a preference for plant-based diets, including algae and leaves, but will also consume flakes, pellets, and wafers. However, it is advisable to avoid high-protein foods for this species. In addition to their primary diet, they enjoy live and frozen foods and will appreciate occasional treats such as small snails for added nourishment.