Flathead Loricariichthys

Loricariichthys platymetopon is the most distinctive member of its genus by virtue of its extraordinarily wide, depressed head — broader proportionally than in any other Loricariichthys species. The species name (platy = flat/broad, metopon = forehead) explicitly references this feature. It inhabits large lowland rivers, lagoons, and oxbows of the La Plata basin across Argentina, Paraguay, and southern Brazil.

This is the largest commonly recognised Loricariichthys species and requires a correspondingly large aquarium. It is an omnivore and feeds opportunistically on algae, organic detritus, invertebrates, and plant matter on the river bottom. In the aquarium it accepts a wide variety of sinking foods and is one of the more straightforward large Loricariids to feed.

Loricariichthys platymetopon is a long-lived species when conditions are correct. The La Plata basin's seasonal temperature variation means this species can tolerate and indeed may benefit from a cooler period of several months in the aquarium, which may also serve as a breeding trigger.

Water: 20–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderate hardness (GH 5–18); tolerates seasonal temperature range. Tank: 200 L minimum; large sand substrate area; wood or stone caves; powerful filtration. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm and mysis, algae wafers, blanched vegetables. Breeding: Cool season conditioning may trigger; presumed substrate spawner with male guarding. Compatibility: Peaceful; La Plata cichlids, armoured catfish, larger tetras.