Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Brochis multiradiatus is an extremely peaceful, social, and non-aggressive catfish. They thrive when kept in groups, displaying playful shoaling behavior as they forage together on the tank floor. They do not possess territorial tendencies and will not bother any tankmates, making them ideal residents for community aquariums. Because of their gentle nature, they should not be housed with aggressive or boisterous fish that might outcompete them for food or bully them.

Diet

Omnivore

This species is omnivorous and actively searches the substrate for a variety of foods. Their diet should consist of high-quality sinking pellets or tablets formulated for catfish as their staple food. This should be regularly supplemented with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, tubifex, and brine shrimp to ensure optimal health. Since they feed on the bottom, care must be taken to ensure that food actually reaches them and is not entirely consumed by surface-dwelling tankmates.

Life expectancy

5-10 years

In a well-maintained aquarium, Brochis multiradiatus can achieve a lifespan of 5 to 10 years. Their longevity is highly dependent on water quality, diet, and a stress-free environment. Regular maintenance and a species-appropriate habitat are key factors in helping them reach their maximum lifespan. Poor diet or elevated nitrate levels can significantly shorten their lives by causing chronic stress and bacterial infections.

Sex ratio

Group

This species does not require a strict male-to-female ratio for general aquarium keeping, though females are usually rounder and larger than males. However, they are highly social shoaling fish and must be kept in groups of at least 5 to 6 individuals to feel secure. In smaller numbers, they can become stressed, timid, and remain hidden most of the time. When aiming to breed them, providing a group with a higher ratio of males to females can sometimes help stimulate spawning behavior.

Feeding frequency

Twice daily

It is recommended to feed Brochis multiradiatus once or twice daily with portions they can consume within a few minutes. Providing multiple smaller feedings can help mimic their natural behavior of continuous foraging throughout the day. It is best to feed them in the evening or shortly before turning off the lights, as they are naturally more active during twilight hours. Any uneaten food should be monitored and removed to prevent it from decaying and fouling the water.

Bioload

Medium

Brochis multiradiatus is a relatively large bottom-dwelling catfish, which means it produces a higher amount of biological waste than smaller Corydoras species. To manage this bioload effectively, a powerful filtration system with both mechanical and biological media is highly recommended. Regular water changes of at least 25% are necessary to maintain low nitrate levels, as this species is particularly sensitive to poor water quality. Keeping the sandy substrate clean of accumulated waste is also vital to prevent infections of their sensitive sensory barbels.

Flow

Stagnant

In the aquarium, Brochis multiradiatus prefers a moderate water flow that is well-oxygenated. While they inhabit areas with gentle currents in the wild, they also venture into swifter streams and benefit from active circulation to keep the substrate clean. A moderate flow helps distribute oxygen throughout the tank, which is essential for their health and energy levels. However, the current should not be so strong that it prevents them from resting comfortably on the bottom.

Jump risk

Yes

There is a notable risk of jumping with this species due to their unique physiological behavior of gulping atmospheric air. During these rapid ascents to the surface, they can build up significant momentum and accidentally leap out of the water. Therefore, a secure, tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent them from jumping out of the aquarium. It is also important to leave a small gap of air between the water surface and the lid so they can safely breathe without injury.

Reproduction

Oviparous

Breeding Brochis multiradiatus in captivity is considered difficult and is rarely achieved by casual hobbyists. To trigger spawning, breeders must simulate the rainy season by performing large water changes with cooler, soft water. The fish exhibit a classic spawning behavior where they lay eggs on broad leaves or flat surfaces, which must then be protected from the parents. Raising the fry is challenging as they require extremely clean water and tiny live foods like infusoria or baby brine shrimp.

Compatibility & tankmates

Due to their peaceful nature, Brochis multiradiatus is highly compatible with a wide range of non-aggressive tankmates. Ideal companions include small tetras, rasboras, peaceful dwarf cichlids, and other gentle catfish species. They should not be kept with large, aggressive, or territorial species that might stress or prey on them. Additionally, fast-swimming surface feeders should be balanced so that the bottom-dwelling Brochis can feed without competition.

Tank level

Bottom

Brochis multiradiatus is a dedicated bottom-dwelling species that spends almost all of its time sifting through the substrate in search of food. They require a soft, sandy substrate that allows them to perform this natural digging behavior without damaging their delicate snouts and barbels. Although they reside at the bottom, they will occasionally make rapid vertical dashes to the surface to gulp atmospheric air. After gathering air, they immediately return to the substrate to resume their foraging activities.