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Hippocampus Bildarchiv (4) Johnny Jensen's Photographic Library (1)

Description: Dorsal spines (total): 2; Dorsal soft rays (total): 7; Anal spines: 0; Anal soft rays: 7 - 8. Diagnosis: caudal peduncle short and broad, its depth more than 2 times the horizontal distance between anal and adipose fin bases, rarely even deeper; anterior edge of pectoral spine coarsely serrated, with numerous small serrations, more numerous than those along the posterior edge. Barbels generally short: maxillary barbel reaching a little beyond pectoral spine base, external mandibular barbel not reaching tip of spine but up to level of dorsal-fin spine, and inner mandibular barbel up to beginning of opercula, but it should however be noted that some juvenile specimens have slightly longer barbels. Adipose fin not always high and solid; colour pattern usually with 5-7 vertical bands. This genera, which includes another 8 species are quite difficult to identify, and on top of this juveniles can have different markings and colouration to the adult versions. First transferred into Parauchenoglanis by Skelton in 1993. Habitat: Favours rocky habitats or marginal vegetation in slow-flowing rivers and lagoons, often taking shelter under trees. Reproduction: Eggs are large and relatively few, suggesting parental care, but no details are known. 'Grunts' when taken out of the water. Aquarium Care: Not a predator as such so should be safe to house with smaller species. Peaceful catfish which will do well in company of larger characins from Africa and large Barbs. Diet: In its natural habitat its diet consists of small fishes and invertebrates like snails, shrimps and insects. In the aquarium it will eat a variety of foods. Tablet and pellet foods with a good quality flake and frozen bloodworms. Also relishes live worms such as the common garden worm, making sure that there has been no weedkiller on the premises, and white worm.

Dotted Catfish

Auchenoglanis fasciatus, Auchenoglanis guttatus, Auchenoglanis monkei, Parauchenoglanis fasciatus, Parauchenoglanis guttatus, Parauchenoglanis loennbergi, Pimelodus guttatus

Claroteidae

Africa: Ouémé River, Benin, to the Sanaga River, Cameroon. Type locality: In einem Kleinen Bache im Urwald 2 km südlich von Logobaba (4º2'N, 9º45'Ö), Kamerun.

15.0cm. (6ins)

22-26°C (71-79°F)

6.2-7.5.

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