Remarks:  Harttia punctata is a species of Loricariid whose entire genus is rarely seen in the hobby as they are not frequently imported. Their genus is named after Charles Frederick Hartt, a Canadian naturalist, paleontologist, and geologist who assisted with their collection during the Thayer Expedition to Brazil during the mid-1800s. Harttia punctata have long, flat gray or tan bodies lined with dark gray horizontal bands along with black speckles. The intensity of their coloration and markings can vary based on the individual as well as their mood. While many consider them to be a type of whiptail, they lack the threads that are present on the dorsal and caudal fins most associate with whiptail catfish. Instead, they have shorter finnage making them a better choice to be housed with nippier, yet still peaceful, fish such as danios compared to other whiptails.

  In the wild, Harttia punctata can be found in the upper and middle Rio Tocantins in Brazil. The areas they inhabit have clean, clear, cool, and fast flowing waters rich in dissolved oxygen. As these are the conditions this fairly sensitive species is used to, they will not tolerate poor water quality, high temperatures, or low oxygen levels. The required conditions can be replicated within the home aquarium utilizing heavy filtration, aeration, and frequent water changes. Wavemakers can also be useful in creating a current which can be fascinating to watch the Harttia punctata handle with ease, swimming into the current and clinging to structures with ease. When considering tankmates, be sure to choose those that prefer the cooler conditions required by Harttia punctata. Also ensure these tankmates are not overly aggressive or boisterous as these catfish can be timid even in regards to feeding so they can be easily bullied away from food.

  Harttia punctata are mostly herbivorous and graze on algae and biofilm growing on rocks, wood, and other surfaces in the wild, occasionally eating tiny crustaceans and larvae that may be hiding in the vegetation. For them to thrive in captivity, a diet heavy in vegetable matter should be provided which can consist of gel foods, sinking tablets, tubers, and fresh vegetables. Allowing some algae growth for them to graze on will also be good for the health of the Harttia punctata as they can be great at keeping it under control and it provides further variation in their diet. More protein rich foods such as bloodworms and mysis shrimp can be offered occasionally as a treat, but should be kept at a minimum to avoid bloat and other digestion issues. Like with most Loricariids, wood should be present as well to ensure proper digestion. If cared for properly, they can be a great, rare addition to a cool water South American community tank.