Striped Leporinus

Leporinus striatus, the Striped Leporinus, presents a different patterning to the banded species — longitudinal dark stripes run along the flanks of a pale cream to whitish body, giving it a more streamlined, elegant appearance. Native to the Amazon basin, it is a fast-swimming, energetic fish that appreciates large, open aquariums with strong current and excellent oxygenation.

Like other Leporinus, it is primarily herbivorous and will consume soft plants, making artificial décor or very robust plant species the practical choice. It is somewhat less aggressive than L. fasciatus in mixed-species setups and can be kept with large, robust South American fish such as larger cichlids, silver dollars, and pacu relatives. A tight-fitting lid remains mandatory.

A plant-heavy diet supplemented with protein is ideal: herbivore pellets, algae wafers, spirulina flake, blanched vegetables, and occasional frozen or live foods. Regular large water changes maintain the excellent water quality this species requires.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 2–15, KH 1–8); strong oxygenation. Tank: 250 L minimum; secure lid; open swimming space; strong flow; robust or artificial plants. Feeding: Herbivore pellets, algae wafers, spirulina flake, blanched greens; frozen protein supplement. Breeding: Not documented in captivity. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive with own species; compatible with large robust South American fish.