Long-whiskered Dianema

Adult fish of this species reach a length of approximately 10 cm. Their body is covered with a granular pattern consisting of numerous black speckles on a dark gray or light gray background. A distinctive feature is the long, antenna-like barbels on their head. Sexual dimorphism is weakly expressed, making sex determination quite a difficult task.

This species is widely distributed in the Amazon River system, encompassing the territories of modern-day Peru and Brazil. Dianema prefers habitats in tributaries of large rivers, as well as in floodplain lakes and ponds, especially where there are many shelters and the water flows slowly.

This fish is distinguished by its peaceful and calm disposition, safe even for the smallest aquarium inhabitants. It coexists perfectly with representatives of Amazonian fauna, including tetras, South American cichlids, and Corydoras catfishes. No conflicts are observed within this species, so the Long-whiskered Dianema can be kept individually or in a group of its kind. It should be noted that in a group, it displays greater activity.

An aquarium of 100 liters is quite sufficient for a small group of these catfishes. For decoration, you can use a soft sandy substrate, live plants (both rooted and floating), as well as various shelters: snags, roots or tree branches, and other decorative elements. Optimal water parameters are characterized by slightly acidic pH with a wide range of hardness. Often, simply letting the water stand for 24 hours before adding it to the aquarium is enough. In general, this catfish is very undemanding and can adapt well to different conditions, so when cohabiting with other fish, the conditions are primarily set up to meet the needs of its tankmates. Aquarium care includes regular cleaning of the substrate from organic pollution and weekly partial water changes (10–15% of the total volume) with fresh water.

The Bronze Dianema has no particular food preferences and readily accepts most common dry, frozen, and live foods. It is important that the food sinks to the bottom, however, over time, adult specimens may start to take food from the water surface.

Breeding offspring in home conditions, while possible, is associated with certain difficulties. The main problem is replicating natural conditions, as these catfishes spawn at the beginning of the rainy season, which occurs in summer. However, geographically, the summer period in South America occurs at different times: north of the equator it is June–August, and south of the equator it is December–February. The closer an individual is to its wild ancestors (second, third, or fourth generation bred in captivity), the more sensitive it is to external conditions. General recommendations for stimulating spawning in Long-whiskered Dianema include a gradual change in water parameters by adding very soft, cool water over several days and enriching the diet with live food. The water temperature should be lowered to 23–24°C and maintained until spawning is complete. A sign of impending spawning is a noticeably enlarged abdomen of the female, swollen with eggs. As soon as you notice the eggs, they should be immediately moved to a separate tank with identical conditions to protect them from being eaten by other fish, including their own parents.

The main cause of most diseases in these fish is unsuitable keeping conditions and poor-quality nutrition. If initial symptoms are observed, it is first necessary to check water parameters and the concentration of dangerous substances such as ammonia, nitrites, and nitrates. If the indicators deviate from the norm, they should be brought back into order, and only then should treatment begin.

When choosing a Long-whiskered Dianema, pay attention to the fish's overall activity: healthy specimens should be active and show interest in searching for food. Inspect the skin for any ulcers, white film, unnatural spots, or fin damage, which may indicate bacterial or fungal infections. Avoid purchasing fish with severely sunken bellies or signs of emaciation, as this often indicates internal parasites or a prolonged lack of quality nutrition. Ensure the fish's eyes are clear and its breathing is even, without signs of a rapid gill rate.