Synaptolaemus latofasciatus
Red Banded Leporinus
Red Banded Leporinus
Low stock: 2 left
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Remarks: The red banded leporinus is one of the most desirable of its kind in the hobby. Their bright red/orange colors contrasted nicely by dark black vertical bands adds a pop of color to almost any tank. These vibrant colors aren’t the only thing that makes the red banded leporinus stand out, their demeanor is also a plus. Compared to other leporinus and headstanders, they are much more mellow and less likely to pick fights with conspecifics. That being said, there is still a chance for them to get territorial especially when kept in a smaller space so the possibility of having to separate them should be planned for. Providing plenty of hiding spots and open swimming space will help reduce the likelihood of this occurring.
An interesting thing to note about the red banded leporinus is that they do not actually belong to the Leporinus genus. Instead, they are the only known member of the Synaptolaemus genus. They were originally discovered in 1910 by Steindachner who originally described them as Synaptolaemus cingulatus. Later in 2011, Britzki et al. determined that the fish known as Leporinus latofasciatus was the same as S. cingulatus. This led to the red banded leporinus being reclassified as Synaptolaemus latofasciatus. Originally, they were thought to only occupy the Orinoco River in Venezuela, but are now known to occur in a much broader range spanning from the upper Orinoco to the middle and lower Amazon regions. The waters they inhabit are rather warm for a headstander and typically very tannin-stained from all the fallen branches and other botanicals present in their habitat. These red/black water habitats make the red banded leporinus be able to hide in plain sight due to their red coloring blending in with the water. They are most often found under branches and other debris, feeding on algae, tiny crustaceans, and other small invertebrates on the undersides of these structures. The upturned mouth of the red banded leporinus assists it in this interesting feeding style that allows it to feed in usually untouched areas while keeping an eye out for predators. The small bristles on their “chin” aid in finding small prey and add to their already unique appearance.
Care for the red banded leporinus is very similar to that of other leporinus and headstanders. They require lots of overhangs to hide under while also appreciating plenty of open swimming space. While they are a loosely shoaling species, there is typically frequent nipping and chasing amongst the group as they establish a pecking order. If not kept in proper numbers of six or more, this nipping and chasing behavior can be extended to other tankmates outside their species. To prevent aggression and damage to tankmates, it is therefore heavily recommended to keep these fish in large groups with plenty of tank space. Tankmates with long fins are advised against as they will likely get nipped. Red banded leporinus can do very well in a South American community tank with medium to large sized cichlids such as severums as they are too large to be swallowed and are fast swimmers. Being voracious omnivore that will feed on almost any food offered, care should be taken if housing them with more shy species to ensure all fish are getting enough to eat. Like others in their family, the red banded leporinus has a decent life span for a Characiform so with proper care they can be enjoyed for many years.
Animal Data
Animal Data
- Native to: South America
- Breeding: Wild-caught in Colombia
- Max adult size: 4-5"
- Diet: Omnivore
- Social behavior: Moderate
- Care skill: Intermediate
Tank Parameters
Tank Parameters
- Temp range: 75°F - 82°F
- pH range: 5.0 - 7.5
- GH range: 25 ppm - 150 ppm
- Min Tank Size:
Shipping Info
Shipping Info
We provide premium next day air shipping at affordable flat rates to minimize transit time for the health of the fish.
| US Zone 1 | UPS Next Day Air | $39.99 |
| US Zone 2 | UPS Next Day Air | $49.99 |
| US Zone 3 | UPS Next Day Air | $59.99 |
| US Zone 4 | UPS Next Day Air | $69.99 |
| Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Alaska | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Canada | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Florida | UPS Next Day Ground | $19.99 |
| Local pickup | Select at checkout | No charge |
| No overseas shipping | ||
Minimum order for all shipping is $50 for mainland US, $100 elsewhere. Saturday delivery available for an extra $30. Shipping to Alaska and Canada is not flat rate and can be subject to additional fees based on location.
Important order and shipping info
Allow 2-4 business days to process and pack your order. You will receive a notification when it actually ships. Order cancellations are subject to a 10% restocking fee. Order changes cannot be made. However, if you wish to add to your order within 24 hours, you may place a second order with a request to combine the shipments. We will do our best to accommodate, however once an order is packaged and sealed it cannot be reopened.
Your order is covered by our Healthy & Happy Arrival Guarantee.
Why buy from us?
Our Healthy & Happy Arrival guarantee
We've been packing and shipping live fish for over 50 years. When you buy from us, you get the healthiest stock and most experienced live fish shipping in the industry. So you know you won't be disappointed!
Will my fish look like the picture?
The majority of fish on our website will NOT look like their photos upon their unboxing. Fish change in appearance depending on many factors, including mood, age, gender, and social status. Fish will naturally lose color during shipping and may appear faded upon arrival. Pictures are used as examples only. Pictures may be of mature fish with full color or juvenile fish without color. We encourage you to research the species as much as possible prior to ordering in order to familiarize yourself with the various appearances they may take on. Many species have females that look drastically different to their male counterparts, and many juveniles will not have as much color (or different colors) as their adult forms. If you have questions about how the fish will look, please review their information and email us if you have any questions.
How do I know which fish can go together in my tank?
Research the product descriptions on our website and use Google search to help decide which fish can go together. PLEASE do your research and email us if you have any questions. Also, we have a very active Facebook group called Imperial Tropicals Fishkeepers where you can learn from knowledgable and experienced fishkeepers.
How do you ship live fish? Sounds risky!
We've been shipping live fish for over 50 years. we use specialized packaging and techniques to ensure their health. See how we do it.
How much does shipping cost?
We provide premium next day air shipping at affordable flat rates to minimize transit time for the health of the fish.
| US Zone 1 | UPS Next Day Air | $39.99 |
| US Zone 2 | UPS Next Day Air | $49.99 |
| US Zone 3 | UPS Next Day Air | $59.99 |
| US Zone 4 | UPS Next Day Air | $69.99 |
| Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Alaska | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Canada | UPS 1-2 Day Air | Starts at $89.99 |
| Florida | UPS Next Day Ground | $19.99 |
| Local pickup | Select at checkout | No charge |
| No overseas shipping | ||
Minimum order for all shipping is $50 for mainland US, $100 elsewhere. Saturday delivery available for an extra $30. Shipping to Alaska and Canada is not flat rate and can be subject to additional fees based on location.
Important order and shipping info
Allow 2-4 business days to process and pack your order. You will receive a notification when it actually ships. Order cancellations are subject to a 10% restocking fee. Order changes cannot be made. However, if you wish to add to your order within 24 hours, you may place a second order with a request to combine the shipments. We will do our best to accommodate, however once an order is packaged and sealed it cannot be reopened.
Your order is covered by our Healthy & Happy Arrival Guarantee.
When will I get my order?
We need 2-4 days to select and pack your fish, you'll get a notification when it ships along with tracking info. It will arrive the next day or day after, depending on your location. See our Shipping Policy for full info.
What if my order is delayed? Will my fish be OK?
We ship hundreds of packages a week, and most are delivered without any issues thanks to our experienced team and premium air courier service. Our high-tech packaging is designed to sustain the animals a minimum of 2-3 days in the box, and in some cases longer, depending on the breed.
However, sometimes delays do occur. If this happens to your order, please document and contact us promptly following our inspection and documentation policies above in order to receive credit.
Can I change or cancel my order after it is placed?
Orders can be changed or cancelled within 24 hours, subject to a 10% restocking fee. Shipping is stressful for the animals and we cannot open boxes once they have been prepped and packed.
Can you hold my order until my tank is ready?
We can hold for a few days, but not beyond a week as inventory changes rapidly. Please only place your order when you know you will be ready to receive them.
What if my order is missing something?
First, please check the box and packaging thoroughly. If you are sure an item is missing please contact us immediately.
Do you offer pickup on local orders?
Yes! Just specify local pickup as your shipping option in checkout and we'll let you know when it is ready.
What if a fish I receive seems dead, sick or doesn't look right?
97% of our orders arrive without an issue. But if something goes wrong, no worries! You're covered under our Healthy & Happy Arrival Guarantee