Spotted Pimelodus | Pimelodus maculatus

Catfish / Pimelodidae / Spotted Pimelodus

Profile: Spotted Pimelodus
Pimelodus maculatus
Synonyms: Pimelodus clarias, P. rigidus, Piramutana macrospila, Pseudorhamdia piscatrix, Silurus clarias
Physical description: An elongated catfish that has long barbels extending for the mouth. The body is brownish-sliver in color with many large, brown spots. The fins match the body color. The mouth is wide and three pair of whiskers extend from it. It has a large head and the tail is forked.
Size/Length: To 10" (25 cm), although not usually more than 7" (18 cm) in captivity.
Similar species: Dusky Pimelodus ( Pimelodus blochi), Pictus Catfish ( Pimelodus pictus )
Habitat: South AmericA: the Rio Velhas (Brazil) to the Rio Paraguay (Paraguay).
S: bottom
Aquarium: 48" (122 cm) or 50 or more gallons (190 L). See P. pictus.
Water chemistry: pH 6.8-7.8 (7.4); 4-20 dH (12); 68-75°F (20-24°C)
Social behavior: A group fish that gets along well with large community fish, such as Angels or other Cichlids. Smaller fish (under 2.5" or 6.4 cm) will be eaten by this nocturnal predator.
Suggested companions: Central and South American cichlids, large characins, Arawana.
FOOD: Live; earthworms, fish, Tubifex, insect larvae; tablets; chopped meat.
SEX: Females are plumper and larger than males.
Breeding techniques: Unsuccessful, possibly because fish do not reach maturity in aquaria.
Breeding potential: 10. Breeding has not been recorded in captivity.
Remarks: This catfish has serrated pectoral fins that easily get caught in a net or pierce the skin. The Spotted Pimelodus has the ability to make an audible, creaking sound.
Difficulty of care: 5. A hardy catfish that requires an occasional feeding of live foods.