Evans' Spatuloricaria

Spatuloricaria evansii is a large-bodied Loricariid native to the Paraguay River drainage and adjacent flooded lowlands of Paraguay and northern Argentina. The genus Spatuloricaria is characterised by a distinctly wide, spatula-shaped flattened snout that differentiates it clearly from other whiptail genera. Spatuloricaria evansii is the most commonly encountered member of this genus in the aquarium trade.

In nature, this species inhabits sandy and muddy-bottomed rivers and backwaters, using its broad snout to scrape organic material and algae from flat substrate surfaces. In the aquarium it requires a large tank with a soft substrate and good filtration. Its robust size means it produces significant waste and strong filtration is necessary to maintain water quality.

Spatuloricaria evansii is peaceful despite its size and will not harass tankmates unless competing directly for food or resting space. It is a good companion for large South American cichlids, armoured catfish, and larger tetras in a suitably large La Plata biotope setup.

Water: 20–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 3–15); gentle to moderate flow. Tank: 200 L minimum; large sand area; driftwood or rock shelters; strong filtration. Feeding: Algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables, occasional frozen foods. Breeding: Limited captive data; presumed shelter or substrate spawner. Compatibility: Peaceful with large community fish; La Plata biotope cichlids, armoured catfish.