The Pinocchio whiptail (Hemiodontichthys acipenserinus) is a distinctive freshwater catfish from South America, best known in the aquarium hobby for its exceptionally long, pointed snout and slender, twig-like body.
Key Characteristics
Appearance: They have a "diamond" shape when viewed from above and a rostrum (nose) that is enlarged at the tip. They typically grow to about 10–13.5 cm (4–5.4 inches) in length.
Behaviour: These are shy, bottom-dwelling fish that often partially bury themselves in sandy substrate for camouflage.
Breeding: They are paternal lip-brooders. The male develops enlarged, veil-like lips to carry and protect the egg mass until they hatch.
Aquarium Care
To keep Pinocchio whiptails healthy, a specialized setup is often required due to their specific needs:
Substrate: A soft, sandy substrate is essential so they can exhibit their natural burying behaviour without injuring their delicate barbels.
Tank Size: A minimum of 20–30 gallons (75–115 litres) is recommended for a small group.
Water Conditions:
Temperature: 24–28°C (75–82°F).
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic).
Oxygen: They require high oxygen levels and moderate water movement.
Diet: While they graze on biofilm, they are primarily omnivorous/carnivorous, feeding on small aquatic invertebrates. Offer them live or frozen foods like bloodworms, daphnia, and sinking pellets.
Compatibility
Because they are so peaceful and slow to eat, they should only be kept with non-aggressive tank mates that won't outcompete them for food, such as:
Small tetras and rasboras.
Dwarf cichlids like Apistogramma.
Small Corydoras species.
SKU: RBM
