CATFISH

CATFISH

There are over 2,000 species of catfish (order: Siluriformes), making them one of the largest orders of fish. They vary greatly in body shape, pattern, and scale configuration.

Catfish inhabit diverse environments in both freshwater and saltwater. They belong to 34 families, 13 of which are covered in this book. These include:



Popular Aquarium Catfish: A Guide for Fishkeepers

Catfish are among the most fascinating and diverse freshwater fish kept in home aquariums. With their unique whisker-like barbels, bottom-dwelling habits, and peaceful nature, these fish make excellent additions to a community tank. Many species also serve as efficient tank cleaners by scavenging for leftover food and algae. This article explores some of the most commonly kept aquarium catfish and their care requirements.

Corydoras Catfish (Cory Cats)

Corydoras are small, social catfish that thrive in groups of at least six. These peaceful fish are ideal for community tanks and prefer soft, sandy substrates to protect their sensitive barbels.

  • Size: 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm)
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
  • Water Conditions: pH 6.5-7.5, Temperature 72-78°F (22-26°C)
  • Diet: Omnivorous – flakes, sinking pellets, and frozen foods

Cory Cats are active bottom dwellers and enjoy well-planted tanks with hiding spots. They are known for their playful, shoaling behavior and make excellent tankmates for peaceful fish like tetras and rasboras.

Plecostomus (Plecos)

Plecostomus, or Plecos, are popular algae-eating catfish. While some species, like the Common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus), grow very large, many aquarists prefer smaller varieties, such as the Bristlenose Pleco (Ancistrus), which only reaches about 5 inches.

  • Size: 4-24 inches (varies by species)
  • Tank Size: Minimum 20 gallons (for small species); 75+ gallons (for large species)
  • Water Conditions: pH 6.5-7.8, Temperature 72-82°F (22-28°C)
  • Diet: Primarily herbivorous – algae wafers, blanched vegetables, driftwood (for some species)

Most Plecos are nocturnal and prefer a tank with caves and driftwood for hiding. Although they help control algae, they should be supplemented with fresh vegetables and sinking pellets to maintain health.

Otocinclus Catfish (Otos)

Otocinclus, or Otos, are small, peaceful catfish that are excellent for controlling algae growth in aquariums. These fish thrive in groups and prefer well-established tanks with plenty of plant cover.

  • Size: 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm)
  • Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons
  • Water Conditions: pH 6.5-7.5, Temperature 72-79°F (22-26°C)
  • Diet: Herbivorous – algae, algae wafers, blanched vegetables

Otos are sensitive to water quality and require stable, well-maintained tanks. They should be kept in groups of at least three to six for social interaction.

Pictus Catfish

The Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) is a lively, silver-colored catfish with striking black spots and long, flowing barbels. They are active swimmers and require ample space to move.

  • Size: 4-6 inches (10-15 cm)
  • Tank Size: Minimum 50 gallons
  • Water Conditions: pH 6.5-7.5, Temperature 75-81°F (24-27°C)
  • Diet: Carnivorous – sinking pellets, frozen or live foods (brine shrimp, bloodworms)

Pictus Catfish are best suited for larger tanks with fast-moving fish. They may eat small tankmates, so pairing them with similarly sized fish is recommended.

Conclusion

Catfish are an excellent addition to freshwater aquariums, offering a variety of sizes, colors, and behaviors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful bottom feeder like a Corydoras, an algae-eating Pleco, or an active predator like the Pictus Catfish, there's a species suited for every tank setup. Providing proper tank conditions, diet, and companions will ensure your catfish thrive for years to come.