Remarks:  Not much is known about the longnose whiptail as they are not frequently seen in the hobby or extensively studied. Their natural habitats consist of rivers and tributaries in Brazil. They have the usual whiptail body plan including the long, elegant tail streamers, but with the addition of a long “nose” in the form of a rostrum. This structure is what they derived their scientific name from, Sturisoma rostratum where “rostratum” roughly translates to “snout-like” or “beaked.” The longnose whiptail is mostly tan or gray in color with a white belly and a black or dark gray horizontal band running from the snout all the way to the tail. They display a natural beauty along with a unique shape that can look fantastic in a number of home aquariums.

  Care for the longnose whiptail is like that of other whiptails in that they do best when kept in pristine water whose parameters mimic that of their natural environment. Water that is soft and acidic should be utilized along with heavy filtration and aeration to ensure oxygen levels remain high. Frequent water changes should be performed to ensure nitrate levels remain low and prevent illness. These omnivorous grazers, like all Loricariids, need to have access to wood at all times to ensure proper gut health. Plenty of hiding places are also necessary to help these shy catfish feel safe and encourage them to explore the aquarium rather than hide all the time. Longnose whiptails have a peaceful disposition with territorial fights among males usually being the only aggression they display. Fish that are overly aggressive or nippy should not be housed with whiptails as they are likely to nip at the beautiful streamers that develop on healthy whiptails. If cared for properly, they can make a great addition to a South American community tank.