Morrow's Whiptail Catfish

Rineloricaria morrowi is native to the Peruvian Amazon basin, where it inhabits the margins of slow to moderately flowing rivers and their associated flooded forests. It is a subtly attractive species with repeating brown cross-bands on a lighter tan background, and a body plan typical of the genus — slender, armoured, and flattened against the substrate.

In the aquarium, this species prefers a calm environment with a fine substrate, some driftwood, and gentle to moderate filtration. It is less commonly available than Rineloricaria fallax but is equally manageable for beginner to intermediate hobbyists. Given flat stones or broad plant leaves, it will spawn readily once a compatible pair is established.

The fry of Rineloricaria morrowi are comparatively large at hatching and accept vegetable-based fry foods immediately. The male guards the egg mass until hatching and may continue to guard fry for a brief period afterward.

Water: 23–27°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderate (GH 2–12); gentle flow. Tank: 60 L minimum; sand substrate, flat stones or wood for spawning, plants optional. Feeding: Algae wafers, blanched vegetables, spirulina; accepts sinking pellets. Breeding: Flat surface spawner; male guards; fry robust and easy to raise on vegetable foods. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent with tetras, small cichlids, and other community species.