Banded Leporinus

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dragonfish

Plecostomus
MFK Member
Sep 17, 2006
5,016
13
60
Florida
Personal observations of Banded Leporinus(Leporinus Fasciatus). Popular fish known for its bright banded colors, They are usually sold in the two to three inch range. Given proper room, water parameters and diet they will grow into a monster most beginners who buy them are not prepared for. Mine was aquired at three inches from someone who kept it in a ten gallon for a month and complained it was getting two big. Three months in a 55 and then moved into a 120 turned it into a 12 inch monster within 6-7 months. Very fast swimmer it requires a large enough footprint and a lid as it is also a very accomplished jumper. Water parameters have been: PH 7.6-7.8 Nitrates less than 20 Temp 78-80. Will eat most types of food but will enjoys plant matter. Tankmates that have put up with its harassment are oscars, severums, silver dollars and plecos. Not recommended for small or peaceful fish as it can get very aggressive, ramming or tail slapping anything that annoys or gets near established territory. If you have the tank space highly recommended.

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Do you think the fish listed below will be able to handle the Leporinus in a big tank? What kinds of aggression has your done towards you fish when medium sized and big? Any bad attacks, I have heard many bad stories about this fish and really dont know if I should chance getting one with the fish listed below. Any info would really be appreciated.
 
Most look ok. The silver dollars and barbs will probably out run him. Some people have said theirs were not aggressive but most are. Mine has no trouble with ramming 7 inch oscars, 8 inch severums or chasing anyone who tries to get into his hiding spot. Of course the hiding spot his a 3 inch hole in a 4 inch wide piece of driftwood so most of him sticks out. I would probably try to get one smaller than the others but big enough not to be eaten. But remember they are quick growers.
 
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