H.cf. debilittera L474 is one of several forms of H.debilittera from the Orinoco system. L474 is found in Rio Sinaruco and was first imported by Aqua Global in Germany in 2014. It’s still very new in the hobby, so it’s barely known or kept outside Germany.
Facts:
Name: Hypancistrus cf. debilittera
Trade names: L427
Origin: Rio Cinaruco / Sinaruco, Venezuela
Maximum size: 9 cm / 4”
Keeping L474 and the other, similar forms separate will become a big challenge for breeders in the future. It will be very important to keep track of the lineage when these are purchased, to avoid unwanted crossbreeds of the various forms. L474 can be identified by the higher number of teeth in the upper jaw, a slightly broader head shape and a small size comparable to L340.
L129, L340, L454 and L474 probably belong to the same species, H.debilittera. They are different populations, separated by natural borders which the populations don’t cross. Over time they have developed certain traits to adapt to their habitat, which explain the differences in teeth, pattern, eyes and maximum size. As responsible fishkeepers we should aim to keep these forms separated in our aquariums to avoid crossbreeding
They need an aquarium set up consisting of lots of hiding places in the form of rocks, wood and of course specially made caves that suit their measurements. In these the males will eventually guard their offspring. They prefer water that is warm (26-30 C), soft and slightly acidic. Most of all it should be well oxygenated and clean, so a good filtration system and frequent water changes are essential. Among themselves they are peaceful, although males may quarrel for caves and females can sometimes be badly injured or even killed during the breeding-trapping in the male’s cave. Males develop longer odontodes on their pectoral fins and on their cheeks and have broader heads. Hypancistrus are mostly carnivorous, so a selection of crustaceans, insect larvae and fish meat should be offered along with high quality dried foods that also contain some vegetable matter.
More info:
http://www.l-welse.com/reviewpost/showproduct.php/product/1988
http://www.planetcatfish.com/common/species.php?species_id=6401
http://www.scotcat.com/loricariidae/hypancistrus_sp_l474.htm