TankBud

Longnose distichodus

Distichodus lusosso

Also known as Long-snouted distichodus, Long-nosed distichodus, Long nose distichodus

FreshwaterFish

Longnose distichodus (Distichodus lusosso)
The Wet Spot Tropical Fish · Used with permission

Care at a glance

Temperature
72–81°F
22–27°C
pH
6.0–7.5
Adult size
15 in
38 cm
Minimum tank
119 gal
450 L
Temperament
Aggressive
Social behavior
Solitary
Tankmates
With caution
Swim level
Middle
Difficulty
Difficult
Breeding
No record
Rarity
Rare
Family
Distichodontidae
Origin
Widespread in the Congo River basin in central Africa.

Overview

Juveniles are gorgeous, boldly banded, and sold at a few centimeters, but they grow into large, territorial fish that turn aggressive with age. Plan on a tank of several hundred liters minimum, a tight lid since they jump, and no live plants, which they will eat. Adults are best kept singly or with robust, similarly sized tankmates that can take the heat.

In the wild

Ranges through the main channels and vegetated margins of large Congo basin rivers. It grazes on plants, algae, and other soft growth along submerged wood and rocks. Adults hold their own space and patrol the middle water.

Good to know

Distichodus lusosso is almost identical to the six banded distichodus, but its longer, pointed snout tells the two apart. It reaches about 38 cm and loses its bright juvenile banding with age. It belongs to the African family Distichodontidae.

Did you know

The striking orange and black bars that make juveniles so appealing fade to a plainer look as the fish matures into a foot long grazer.

Common questions

What size tank does a Longnose distichodus need?

A Longnose distichodus needs at least 119 gal (450 L). It spends most of its time in the middle.

What temperature and pH does a Longnose distichodus need?

A Longnose distichodus is comfortable at 72–81°F (22–27°C) with a pH of 6.0–7.5.

How big does a Longnose distichodus get?

An adult Longnose distichodus reaches about 15 in (38 cm).

Related species