Apithanos Pseudohemiodon

Pseudohemiodon apithanos is native to rivers of the Ecuadorian Amazon and represents one of the most morphologically extreme members of the Loricariidae. Its body is remarkably broad and flattened, far more so than typical whiptail genera, with the pectoral fins spread wide giving it a shape reminiscent of a ray or flatfish when resting on the substrate. This extreme flattening, combined with its sandy-brown patterning, makes it virtually invisible when motionless on a sandy riverbed.

In the aquarium, this species requires a wide, shallow footprint aquarium with a fine sand substrate and very gentle to moderate flow. Its flat body plan means it is susceptible to oxygen depletion in stagnant areas and the tank should have gentle surface movement. The species is wholly peaceful and makes an extraordinary conversation piece in a suitably designed biotope setup.

Pseudohemiodon apithanos is periodically available through specialist importers of Ecuadorian and Peruvian fish. It is best kept as the sole sand-resting species in the aquarium to avoid competition for prime resting spots. Its feeding behaviour involves rasping organic material from the sand surface.

Water: 23–27°C, pH 6.0–7.0, soft to moderate (GH 2–10); gentle flow with good surface oxygen exchange. Tank: 120 L minimum; wide footprint; large open sand area essential; no sharp substrates. Feeding: Sinking pellets, algae wafers, frozen bloodworm and tubifex; forages on sand surface. Breeding: Limited captive records; presumed sand surface spawner with male guarding. Compatibility: Peaceful with mid-water and upper-level species; avoid other large sand-resting catfish.