Striped Leporinus (Brevidens striatus)

Remarks:  The striped leporinus (Brevidens striatus) is a larger sized and very active anostomid not often seen within home aquariums. They have a long, stream-lined, golden body with four horizontal black bands and a white belly. Settled, mature fish will also develop a red spot on the upper lip making it almost look like the fish is blushing. This elegant look alongside their mostly peaceful, active personalities make striped leporinus a great addition to the aquarium especially if you are looking for some extra movement.

  The common name and body shape of the striped leporinus can easily make one think they belong to the Leporinus genus, however this is not the case. Originally, striped leporinus were described as Leporinus striatus back in 1858 by Rudolf Kner after he discovered them in Mato Grosso, Brazil. In 2025, this species alongside a few other anostomids were reevaluated using both physical characteristics and DNA analysis by Brazilian ichthyologists Birindelli, Sidlauskas and Melo. Their investigation found that the striped leporinus differed so much that they had to establish an entirely new genus to place them in. They reclassified it as Brevidens striatus with the genus name meaning “short tooth” referencing the unique short fourth tooth this species has. The species name, striatus, references its stripes.

  The native range of the striped leporinus extends well beyond where it was originally discovered. These fish can be found all throughout tropical South America in fast-flowing, well-oxygenated tributaries. Living in such habitats makes their stream-lined bodies and powerful swimming speed very advantageous, especially when pursuing prey or escaping predators. Striped leporinus are commonly found living in large, loose shoals with pecking orders constantly being reinforced through chasing and nipping. When designing a home for this species, keeping all these aspects of their natural lifestyle will best help your striped leporinus thrive. If not kept in proper groups or given enough hiding spots, striped leporinus can quickly become very skittish and stressed. Provide them with plenty of swimming space interspersed with hiding spots they can retire to when spooked, keep them in groups of at least six or more, and ensure oxygen levels are kept high. A varied diet of both meat and plant-based foods will also further help your striped leporinus look their best and have them begging at the glass anytime you approach.

  Striped leporinus are mostly peaceful fish, but they are also opportunistic omnivores with a nipping habit so fish small enough to fit in their mouths like small tetras or fish with long fins like veil-tail angelfish should be avoided as tankmates. Plants also can be at risk for getting nibbled so only very hardy types such as Java fern and anubias should be considered. Instead, they make great dither fish for larger South American species such as large cichlids and catfish. Having a shoal of striped leporinus alongside species like severums and oscars looks great with the addition of their active behavior and elegant, golden color.