Aspidoras fuscoguttatus, commonly known as the Brown Point Shield Skin, is a fascinating freshwater catfish species from the Callichthyidae family. Known for their unique spotted patterns and hardy nature, these fish make a fantastic addition to peaceful community aquariums. Their gentle temperament and manageable care requirements make them popular among aquarists of all levels.
Brown Point Shield Skin Facts
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aspidoras fuscoguttatus |
| Common Names | Brown Point Shield Skin |
| Average Size | 1.5-2 inches (4-5 cm) |
| Life Span | 4-6 years |
| Habitat | Freshwater streams and shallow rivers in South America |
| Coloration | Light brown body with darker spots |
| Temperature Range | 72-78°F (22-26°C) |
| pH Range | 6.5-7.5 |
| Diet | Omnivorous – sinking pellets, algae, live and frozen foods |
| Temperament | Peaceful and community-friendly |
| Aquarium Setup | Planted tank with soft substrate and hiding spots |
Aspidoras fuscoguttatus Profile
The Brown Point Shield Skin is a small, peaceful catfish native to South America. This species thrives in slow-moving waters with sandy or muddy substrates, where they forage for food. With their striking spotted patterns and active, social behavior, they make a charming addition to any tank. Despite their small size, they exhibit hardy and resilient traits, making them ideal for beginners and experts alike.
Brown Point Shield Skin Habitat
In the wild, Aspidoras fuscoguttatus are found in small streams and rivers with soft bottoms and abundant vegetation. These habitats provide plenty of hiding spots and natural food sources. Mimicking these conditions in an aquarium ensures they thrive and display their natural behaviors.
Brown Point Shield Skin Aquarium Setup
Providing the right environment is essential for the health and happiness of Aspidoras fuscoguttatus:
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Tank Size
A minimum of 15 gallons is recommended for a small group of these fish. Larger tanks are ideal for creating a more stable environment and allowing space for tank mates.
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Water Parameters
Maintain water temperatures between 72-78°F (22-26°C) and a pH level of 6.5-7.5. Regular water changes and gentle filtration are key to keeping water quality high.
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Substrate and Decorations
A sandy substrate is ideal for their delicate barbels, which they use to sift through the substrate for food. Include driftwood, rocks, and plants like Java moss or Anubias for hiding spots and enrichment.
Brown Point Shield Skin Diet
These omnivorous fish are easy to feed and enjoy a varied diet. Provide sinking pellets or wafers as a staple, along with live or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. They also graze on algae and biofilm, which supplement their diet naturally.
Brown Point Shield Skin Compatibility
Aspidoras fuscoguttatus are peaceful and thrive in community tanks. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rasboras, guppies, and other small, non-aggressive fish. Avoid keeping them with large or predatory species that might pose a threat.
Breeding Aspidoras fuscoguttatus
Breeding Brown Point Shield Skin fish in captivity is achievable with the right setup. They are egg layers and prefer spawning on flat surfaces like rocks or leaves. To encourage breeding, provide a diet rich in protein and maintain pristine water conditions. Once eggs are laid, remove the adults to prevent them from eating the eggs. Fry can be fed with infusoria or finely crushed flake food.
Common Diseases in Brown Point Shield Skin
While hardy, these fish can suffer from common freshwater diseases like Ich or fin rot if water quality deteriorates. Regular tank maintenance, a balanced diet, and stable conditions are crucial for prevention.
Conclusion
Aspidoras fuscoguttatus, or the Brown Point Shield Skin, is a delightful addition to any peaceful aquarium. With their unique appearance, gentle temperament, and easy care requirements, they are a rewarding choice for aquarists of all experience levels. By providing a suitable environment and proper care, these fish will thrive and become a favorite in your tank.