Remarks: The longtail spatula whiptail is a very large, uncommon Loricariid mainly found in the Rio Orteguasa in Columbia. However, there are reports of it also being found in the Rio Napo in both Ecuador and Peru. Within both rivers, they inhabit spaces with very clear, fast-flowing waters rich in dissolved oxygen and almost devoid of pollutants such as nitrates. These conditions should be simulated within the aquarium with plenty of aeration and small, frequent water changes to ensure the longtail spatula whiptail remains healthy. 

  While this species has fairly mundane coloration of a light brown or tan body with about 4 wide, dark brown bands down the tail and one behind the head, its size, shape, and behavior are very attractive. Like all whiptails, its body is fairly thin and flat but elongated resulting in a very unique shape. Even more interesting is that it possesses very long streamers extending from the tips of its caudal fin that looks very graceful as it swims about the tank. Unlike many of its cousins, the longtail spatula whiptail is not very shy and will happily swim about the tank during the day as long as it is maintained in the appropriate conditions. This active behavior pair with its territorial habits toward conspecifics makes it where this fish should be maintained in a tank with a length of at least 5 ft to give it ample swimming space. A standard 125 gallon typically will be sufficient for 2-3 of these whiptails. All of this makes this species perfect for those looking for a very large whiptail that won't just hide away all day.