Leighton's Whiptail Catfish

Sturisomatichthys leightoni is found in the Magdalena River drainage in Colombia, one of the country's major river systems draining the inter-Andean valleys. The Magdalena basin is characterised by moderate to fast-flowing water, high dissolved oxygen, and a diverse fish fauna with many endemics. Sturisomatichthys leightoni occupies woody and rocky substrates in these rivers, grazing biofilm and algae.

This species is among the least frequently exported Colombian Loricariids and is essentially unknown in mainstream aquarium retail. Its appearance in trade is occasional and typically tied to specialist Colombian fish imports. The genus Sturisomatichthys is itself rarely discussed in hobbyist literature, adding to the mystique of this species.

Care in the aquarium is presumed to follow closely the care protocols for Sturisoma species of similar size. Water quality must be pristine and flow should be moderate to strong. Temperatures should be kept at the cooler end of the tropical range to reflect Magdalena River conditions.

Water: 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate (GH 3–12); good oxygenation and moderate current. Tank: 120 L minimum; driftwood and smooth rocks; avoid stagnant areas in the tank. Feeding: Algae wafers, spirulina, zucchini and cucumber; requires established biofilm on introduction. Breeding: Undocumented in captivity; presume Sturisoma-like behaviour. Compatibility: Peaceful with similarly sized, non-aggressive community fish.