Aquarium Fish Experts fish tanks

Family: Bagridae

Distribution: Bagrichthys macracanthus, more commonly known as Black Lancer Catfish, is found in the Greater Sunda Island Rivers, Thailand, and in Indonesia.  It mainly dwells in large, muddy rivers.

PH: 5.5 – 7.0

Temperature: 24°C -28°C (75 – 82F)

Hardness: 1 – 24 dH

Description: This Black Lancer Catfish differs from Bagrichthys hypselopterus in size, reaching 25 cm in length.  Youngsters have undeveloped caudal and dorsal fins and a black colouration.  It may develop a white chalk-coloured line down its body as it ages, and the dorsal fin will elongate.

Diet: These fish aren’t fussy eaters and will accept anything offered to them, but has a distinct preference for frozen brine shrimp.  You can provide it with bloodworms occasionally, and any prepared catfish foods will be well received.

Breeding: Bagrichthys micracanthus has apparently never been spawned in aquaria, which may be due to its spawning habits in the wild.  This species, like all Bagrichthys species, spawns at the start of the rainy season in flooded forests which are subject to several environmental changes.  The water, given the great deal of rain, becomes softer, while oxygen levels in the water are also raised.  Insects are swept into the rivers which in turn provide a food source and a trigger for reproduction.  As such, this species is very difficult to breed in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Bagrichthys macracanthus is a mid-sized catfish that should be housed in a tank of about 100 gallons in volume.  You should provide a large cave or pipe for this fish as it is shy and may panic at times.  Avoid putting heaters in places the fish can reach; this fish has been known to burn itself on heaters.  It will appreciate plenty of vegetation in its tank.  This species is not overly attractive and will be near impossible to spawn, so it is probably best left to experienced hobbyists.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Bagrichthys species should be kept in a tank with non-aggressive fish.  You could put shoals of rasboras and barbs in your tank to offset the shyness of your Black Lancer.

Family: Bagridae

Distribution: Bagrichthys hypselopterus, more commonly known as Black Lancer Catfish, is found in the main rivers of Sumatra and Borneo.  It mainly dwells in deep waters with a swift current.

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 23°C -28°C (74 – 84F)

Hardness: 6 – 16 dH

Description: The Black Lancer Catfish measures a sizeable 40 cm in length.  It has a humpbacked appearance which distinguishes it from the other Black Lancer catfish, Bagrichthys macracanthus. Adults of this species are mostly black and will develop a white stripe down their bodies.  The Black Lancer can live from 5 – 8 years.

Diet: These fish aren’t fussy eaters and will accept anything offered to them.  It is nocturnal, however, so you should feed it a nightly serve of vegetable and animals foods, including bloodworms and catfish tablets.

Breeding: Bagrichthys hypselopterus has apparently never been spawned in aquaria, which may be due to its spawning habits in the wild.  This species, like all Bagrichthys species, spawns at the start of the rainy season in flooded forests which are subject to several environmental changes.  The water, given the great deal of rain, becomes softer, while oxygen levels in the water are also raised.  Insects are swept into the rivers which in turn provide a food source and a trigger for reproduction.  As such, this species is very difficult to breed in an aquarium environment.

Comments: Bagrichthys hypselopterus is a large catfish species which should be housed in a tank no less than 100 gallons in volume.  It should be provided with quality water, smooth gravel or a sand substrate to emulate its natural environment.  You should also provide the Black Lancer with plenty of vegetation in your tank.  This species requires some maintenance and is best suited to experienced hobbyists.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Bagrichthys species should be kept in a tank with non-aggressive fish.  The Black Lancer has a small mouth which makes it an ineffective predator of large fish.  If you choose to put your Black Lancers in a one-species tank, make sure you only put one male in with a group of females.  Males can become territorial towards each other and will fight.

Family: Osphronemidae

Distribution: Sturisoma panamense, sometimes known as Royal Whiptail, is a freshwater species found in the Pacific slope rivers of Panama, Ecuador and Columbia. 

PH: 6.5 – 7.5

Temperature: 20°C – 22C (72 – 77F)

Hardness: 10 – 20 dH

Description: Sturisoma panamense can reach a maximum length of around 26 cm, but is usually around the 15 – 18 cm mark. This large-finned species has an elongated body and a silver-white belly with yellow-brown spots.  Its body and fins have red, sometimes yellow, elements to them.  Males have a wider, more powerful head, while the female is paler in its colouration.

Diet: The Royal Whiptail can be given plenty of different foods, such as blanched zucchini, crushed fish flakes, catfish pellets and bloodworms.

Breeding: Sturisoma panamense females will attempt to attract males; the female, once spawning is complete, will lay up to 90 eggs in your tank.  Males will sit on top of the eggs for 5 – 6 days, waiting until the fry is ready to hatch.  Females exhibit no parental care at all.  The fry, once hatched, are perfect miniature replicas of their parents.

Comments: Sturisoma panamense should be kept in a tank of at least 35 gallons.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming areas and, if you like, you can decorate it with vegetation that resembles its natural environment.  This species is quite rare within the hobby and is suitable for hobbyists with experience, as it requires moderate care.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Sturisoma panamense is a peaceful, They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Family: Callichthyidae

Distribution: Brochis splendens, better known as the Emerald Catfish, is a species distributed mostly in sluggish, densely vegetated, muddy waters, in particular South America’s Amazon River basin.  It has origins in the Rio Tocatins, the Iquitos region, and Rio Napo.   

PH: 5.5 – 8.0

Temperature: 22°C – 28°C (72 – 82F)

Hardness: 2 – 30 dH

Description: Brochis splendenswill reach a maximum of 6 cm in length and can be expected to live for around five years. This species is often confused for a Corydora, and some scientists believe they are in fact related.  This species has a bronze-green colouration; males are shorter and slimmer than females.  Its head and body can actually vary in colouration from a dull brown-grey to a metallic blue-green colour; it may display a light yellow to pink colour on the lower half of the ventrolateral body scutes.  Some Emerald Catfish may show dark grey spots on their dorsal fin rays, but this is rare.

Diet: The Emerald Catfish should be fed a Corydora diet of flake food, tablet food and grindal worm.  You may offer it whiteworm on a very occasional basis.

Breeding: Breeding Brochis splendens is a difficult process.  It will require a lowered water level and many water changes – colder, soft acidic water – to induce spawning.  A female can lay up to 300 eggs, which she will deposit in the upper areas of the tank and on plants.  The youngsters will barely resemble the parents; they will have a brownish colouration with spots, and a large dorsal fin.

Comments: The Emerald Catfish is quite easy to care for and is suitable to many different tank conditions.  You should cover your tank to reduce the difference in air and water temperature, as this fish breathes atmospheric air.  This species may appreciate a densely planted tank.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Brochis splendens is a very peaceful species that can live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gouramiand Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Family: Auchenipteridae

Distribution: Trachelyopterus fisheri, commonly known as the Woodcat, is a freshwater species found in the Suico River basin, in South America .

PH: 6.0 – 7.0

Temperature: 22°C – 32C (72 – 90F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Trachelyopterus fisheri can reach a maximum length of 28 cm in an aquarium.   This slender fish is distinguished from other members of its genus thanks to its terminal mouth, nape and enlarged dorsal spine.  Males have a genital papilla, spawning tubercles on their barbels and a curved dorsal spine; females are larger and a duller colouration. 

Diet: Trachelyopterus fisheri will eat almost anything you offer it.  It will take all frozen and prepared foods.  It also has an affinity for insects – flies, spiders, mosquitoes – and, in particular, insect larvae.

Breeding: This species has been bred in a tank environment.  It performs internal fertilisation: the pair wraps around each other and will mate for approximately 30 seconds.  Eggs will appear four weeks later; the parents will not care for – but will not eat – the eggs.

Comments: This species should be housed in a tank of around 500 litres.  It will require hiding spaces – driftwood is a good option – and plenty of open swimming space.  You should also make sure that your tank is not too brightly lit and that you are watchful of the water conditions.  It is advised you replace a quarter of the water every month.  This species is large but reasonably undemanding, and can be housed by hobbyists of all levels of experience.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Trachelyopterus fisheri should not be housed with small, timid species, as it may end up eating them.  It should be housed with species that are non-aggressive and of a similar size.

Family: Pimelodidae

Distribution: Pimelodus pictus, or Pictus Catfish, is a species of catfish found in South America’s Amazon and Orinoco River basins.

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 22°C – 25°C (72 – 77F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Pimelodus pictus can reach up to 8 cm in length.  This species has horizontal black and white stripes on its tail fin.  It has a distinctive appearance, with black spots featuring over a silver-white background and long whiskers.  This species has very long barbels which it uses to find food. Be careful, these barbels can puncture your skin if you mishandle them.  Pimelodus pictus can live for up to eight years if kept correctly.

Diet: Pimelodus pictus will eat just about anything.  You can feed it a varied diet of dried sinking pellets, with frozen bloodworms, white worms and earthworms to keep it healthy.  It is rather aggressive in the way it goes about getting food. 

Breeding: There is not a great deal of information available on the breeding of this species; it is believed to be a tough fish to breed.  This species is an egg-layer and rarely breeds in a home aquarium environment.

Comments: The Pictus Catfish will require at least a 20 gallon tank.  You should provide plenty of stones and roots for hiding places.  Be very careful with your water parameters; this species needs clean water and you should conduct weekly water changes of up to 25 per cent of the water.  Pimelodus pictus is recommended to those with experience in the hobby.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Pimelodus pictus can be kept in a community tank with other smaller, non-aggressive species. They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Family: Mochokidae

Distribution: Synodontis nigriventris, commonly known as Blotched Upside-down Catfish, is a freshwater species found in the Congo River basin and the Kasai and Ubangi drainages, Africa.  There are reports it has also been seen in Makaka, outside the Congo River basin. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 22°C – 26C (72 – 79F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Synodontis nigriventris can reach a maximum length of around 10 cm in an aquarium. This catfish has a pale grey to cream colouration and dark blotches over its body; it has a black belly and dark-spotted fins.  It also has large, very narrowly separated eyes, and a dorsal spine with a very smooth anterior face.  The Blotched Upside-down Catfish swims upside down, giving it its common name.

Diet: The Blotched Upside-down Catfish eats insect larvae in the wild; it an aquarium environment it can be given tablets and a quality flake, along with the occasional servings of Daphnia and bloodworm.

Breeding: Synodontis nigriventris should be fed live foods before spawning.  It will appreciate hiding spots – upturned flowerpots or PVC pipe will suffice – to conduct its spawning in.  The eggs will hatch after about two days and the fry should be free swimming within 3 – 4 days.  You can offer the youngsters a diet of freshly hatched brine shrimp.

Comments: A group of Synodontis nigriventris should be kept in a tank of at least 10 gallons.  Your tank should be well-planted – broad-leaved plants are ideal – and you can add driftwood, rocks and caves for hiding locations.  You should ensure the water is moderately soft and a gravel substrate is in place.  This species is easy to look after and is therefore suitable for beginners.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Synodontis nigriventris is a peaceful species that should be kept in groups.  They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetraand Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, CorydorasCatfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppyand Platyand most Gourami(such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio(particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Family: Loricariidae

Distribution: The Twig Catfish is endemic to the Amazon Basin in Venezuela.  It prefers shallow water – such as the shore – and places that consist of lots of driftwood or plants.

PH: 7.5 – 8.5 pH

Temperature: 24 – 26°C (70 – 77°F)

Hardness: 5 – 12 dH

Description: Somewhat of a chameleon in the fish world, Farlowella acus come in various shades of brown that allow it to blend into twigs and plants.  Up close, their bodies display intricate patterning.  It is a very long and slender fish, with its nose being its most defining characteristic: shaped like a needle and long.  The males are identifiable as their noses are thicker and apparently have whiskers, whilst the females’ bodies are bigger.

They are a placid fish around other species; however males will become territorial towards their own.  Their food requirements can be extremely difficult and are often the reason they fail in community tanks.

Diet: A primarily vegetarian diet is recommended for Farlowella acus.  They subsist on algae in the wild; although a captivity-diet often includes additions such as zucchini (an apparent favourite), peas, and spinach as well as occasional live or frozen foods.  They are constant grazers.

Twig Catfish are complicated to feed because they are rather timid and will not fight for their food; hence, they often starve to death in community tanks.  To overcome this, try feeding them when there is a reduction in light levels (such as twilight).

Breeding: The process of breeding itself is not a difficult task with Farlowella acus; the problems occur after the fry have hatched.  A breeding tank should be set up that includes dense plantation, low lighting, mature water, neutral pH and minimal water current.  The female will lay the eggs (40-80) on a hard surface (i.e. aquarium wall) at night or very early in the morning.  The male Twig Catfish will then fan the eggs.  The fry will appear about a week later, and the yolk sac will disappear a few days later.

The complications arise now, because the fry have to be fed immediately after hatching.  A matured tank will give the fry micro-bacteria and plant material to feed on.  They will also have to be fed baby brine shrimp and very fine vegetables; but don’t be surprised if many die: it takes them a while to get the hang of life.

Comments: As Farlowella acus are difficult to keep and breed, they are not recommended for beginners.

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Recommended Compatible Species:They should live happily with Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They also should be good tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also should live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danioand Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish could make great tank mates.

Family: Loricariidae

Distribution: Dekeyseria pulcher, sometimes known as Butterfly Pleco, occurs in the Canal Casiquiare basin, and the Upper Negro and Orinoco Rivers. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 24°C – 28°C (75 – 84F)

Hardness: 5 – 19 dH

Description: Dekeyseria pulcher can reach up to 16 cm in length.  This striped species, with its main colours of black and white, is highly sought after by aquarists.  The Butterfly Pleco can change colours immediately to camouflage it from predators.  It has a life expectancy of 5 – 8 years.

Diet: Dekeyseria pulchra is an algae eater in the wild, but will require more nutrients in an aquarium environment.  You can use algae food as a base diet and add several vegetables – zucchini, cucumbers, green peas – and occasional servings of meaty foods.

Breeding: This species has been bred in aquarium environments, unlike many Plecos.  You should add plenty of driftwood and spawning caves to your tank.  The male will guard and fan the eggs, and keep his fry inside a cave until they are fully formed.

Comments: Dekeyseria pulchra will appreciate conditions close to its natural habitat, so mimic Rio Negro by adding plenty of wood, rocks and plants.  You should avoid a dark substrate; the fish will camouflage itself against a dark background.  Keep this species in a tank of at least 15 gallons in volume.  Dekeyseria pulchra is recommended to those with some experience in the hobby.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Dekeyseria pulchra can be kept in a community tank with other non-aggressive species.  Males can be territorial; be wary if housing Butterfly Pleco in a one-species tank. They will live happily with most Tetra species (particularly the Neon Tetra and Black Tetra). They are also great tank mates with Discus, Apistogramma‘s like Apistogramma Cacatouides and Apistogramma Borelli, Corydoras Catfish  (particularly Corydoras Sterbai and Corydoras aeneus) Angelfish, Clown loach, the common Guppy and Platy and most Gourami (such as the Blue Gourami and Dwarf Gourami like the Honey Gourami) Also can live happily with most Danio (particularly the Zebra Danio and Pearl Danio)  and also many Killifish make great tank mates.

Family: Mochokidae

Distribution: Synodontis decora, sometimes known as Clown Squeaker, is a freshwater species found throughout the Congo River basin, with the exception of the Luapula and Luvua drainages; Pool Malebo, and the Ubangi and Kasai drainages. 

PH: 6.0 – 8.0

Temperature: 23°C – 27C (73 – 81F)

Hardness: 4 – 25 dH

Description: Synodontis decora can reach a maximum length of around 32 cm in the wild. This large fish has a long dorsal fin and an attractive body colouration, along with a compressed head and body.  It is predominantly white with black spots; its dorsal, caudal, ventral and anal fins are all white with black bands featuring on them.   Difficult to sex, males have a ridged genital papillae; females do not.

Diet: Synodontis decora can be given plenty of different foods, but you can feed it flakes and tablets with the occasional helping of frozen foods.

Breeding: Synodontis decora is reportedly difficult to breed and there is no information available in this category.

Comments: Adult Synodontis decora should be kept in a tank of at least 200 gallons.  Your tank should have plenty of open swimming areas given its size and some rockwork, driftwood and piping with a diameter of at least 12 cm.  This species is probably more suitable for hobbyists with experience, due to its size and the breeding difficulties.

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Recommended Compatible Species: Synodontis decora is a peaceful species but shouldn’t be housed with small fish or fin-nippers.  You might like to keep it with barbs and larger African characins.