Who lives among the pretty leaves?

[Tannin Aquatics]

After following us for the better part of a year now, you're probably acutely aware that we're really into leaf litter biotopes, and creating aquariums that replicate this unique habitat. And of course, when you're creating such a habitat in your aquarium, it makes sense that you'd want to give a lot of thought to the fishes which will reside there! I mean, the obvious question here is, "What fishes are suitable/appropriate for a leaf litter biotope-type aquarium?"

A great question; happy you asked!

First off, a quick review. As you recall, leaf litter beds are found throughout tropical rivers,s teams, and other watercourses around the world, from South America, to Asia, and Africa, to name just a few regions. They are remarkably productive habitats, because they offer not only shelter for their inhabitants, but food items, an area to reproduce, and function as a "nursery" of sorts for larval fishes to shelter and feed in. They are among the most productive environments in the wild.

In the case of South American,  litter beds, you're likely to find many species of fishes, distributed among a dozen or more types. You're likely to find Catfishes, characins, and cichlids, just to name a few. Today, we'll focus on South America, and look at a few fishes that you might not have previously considered for your leaf litter aquarium! If you're a SE Asia or African fan- not to worry- we'll touch on those soon in a different installments! (click to read more)