Hypancistrus sp. L499 was brought to Norway in 2016, after having first been exported to the UK via France. The French importer who discovered them, claims they come from high up in the Rio Padauari, an affluent to Rio Negro in Brazil. The individuals we have seen so far are only slightly variable in their pattern, with juveniles showing broad, straight vertical lines which become more wavy in adult fish. In a phototank the fish quickly loses the contrast rich colours, making it a challenge to document the true beauty of this species. It’s worth noticing that this species is very similar to the form we have so far called H.sp. “Madeira”, a form we have not been able to determine the true origin of. Perhaps we are dealing with the same form? Since the first, original export to France no more L499 seem to have found their way into the hobby, and today it seems to be gone from our aquariums.
Facts:
Name: Hypancistrus sp.L499
Trade names: Hypancistrus sp. “Padauari”, L499
Origin: Rio Padauari, Brazil
Maximum size: 15 cm / 6”
As with all Hypancistrus, this species needs 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 fairly warm (27-30 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. It’s a rather small and timid species that should not be exposed to too much competition over food and shelter. 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.
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