Kranpon Tometes

Tometes kranpon is native to the Guiana Shield region, where it inhabits fast-flowing, rocky river sections with clear, soft water and high oxygen levels. Like its congener T. camunani, it shows rheophilic tendencies and feeds primarily on algae scraped from rock surfaces in rapids. It is a large, powerful fish with a deep, compressed body and can reach 50 cm, making it one of the largest herbivorous serrasalmids available to specialist aquarists.

In captivity, Tometes kranpon requires an extremely large aquarium — at minimum 2000 litres — with very strong water movement, excellent oxygenation, and pristine soft water. The aquarium should feature large, smooth river boulders on a sand and gravel substrate. This is not a fish for standard home aquaria; it is appropriate only for public aquariums or the most dedicated and resourced private specialists.

Diet should consist primarily of algae-based foods — spirulina tablets, algae wafers, blanched greens, and quality herbivore pellets. Tometes kranpon is peaceful with other very large fish and the primary challenge in its maintenance is providing appropriate physical conditions rather than managing any aggressive behaviour.

Water: Soft to very soft, pH 4.5–7.0, 24–28°C; maximum oxygenation and very strong current. Tank: 2000 L minimum; river boulder layout; powerful pumps creating strong directional flow. Feeding: Algae-based diet — spirulina, algae wafers, blanched greens, fresh vegetables. Breeding: No captive records; rarely available from specialist importers. Compatibility: Peaceful with very large non-aggressive fish in suitable conditions.