Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Peaceful

They are exceedingly peaceful, shy, and highly cryptic fish that rely completely on their camouflage. They are easily stressed by boisterous tank mates and will simply refuse to eat if intimidated. A quiet, heavily planted aquarium allows their fascinating natural behaviors to shine.

Diet

Herbivore

They are specialized herbivores that constantly graze on soft green algae and biofilm on surfaces. Their diet must be heavily supplemented with high-quality sinking algae wafers and fresh blanched vegetables like zucchini. They do not do well on high-protein, meaty diets which can cause digestive issues.

Sex ratio

Group

They are entirely peaceful with conspecifics and can be kept singly or in small groups without issue. In a group, a ratio of one male to two females is ideal if breeding is desired. Multiple males will rarely fight, but a larger tank is required to provide enough grazing territory.

Feeding frequency

Continuous

Since they are slow, methodical grazers, food should be available to them continuously. Offer fresh vegetables or sinking wafers right before lights out to ensure they get enough to eat. Removing uneaten vegetables the next day is necessary to maintain water quality.

Bioload

Low

The Twig catfish produces a relatively low bioload compared to other similarly sized plecos. However, they are highly sensitive to poor water quality and nitrate buildup. Excellent biological filtration and strict, regular water changes are absolutely crucial for their long-term survival.

Flow

Strong

They originate from slow to moderately flowing rivers in South America with high oxygen levels. They deeply appreciate a gentle but steady current across the bottom of the tank. Highly oxygenated water is vital, so the use of an air stone or gentle powerhead is recommended.

Jump risk

No

Reproduction

Egg scatterer

Captive breeding is possible and often occurs naturally in well-maintained, peaceful setups. The male will meticulously clean a flat surface, often the aquarium glass, where the female deposits eggs. The male then valiantly guards and fans the eggs until they hatch several days later.

Compatibility & tankmates

Verify

They are incredibly peaceful, delicate, and easily outcompeted for food by faster bottom-dwellers. They must be housed with exceptionally peaceful, small nano-fish like ember tetras or dwarf corydoras. Never keep them with aggressive cichlids, large loaches, or any fin-nipping species.

Tank level

Middle/Bottom

They are strictly bottom and lower-middle dwellers, spending their time mimicking sticks on driftwood or plant stems. You will rarely see them swimming in the open water column unless deeply startled. Providing abundant vertical driftwood and large-leaved plants is essential for their comfort.