Species description

Care, breeding and tankmates

Fish profile

Temperament

Semi-aggressive

Juveniles are reclusive and peaceful, mostly hiding during the day. As they mature, they can become quite boisterous and territorial over their chosen hiding spots. They are generally solitary and do not need the company of their own kind.

Diet

Omnivore

While primarily herbivorous as juveniles, their diet expands to become more omnivorous with age. They require large amounts of algae wafers, fresh vegetables, and driftwood to graze on. Meaty foods like bloodworms and shrimp pellets should be offered occasionally to adult specimens.

Sex ratio

Solitary

Sexing is very difficult and only possible in fully mature specimens. Males may develop slightly more pronounced odontodes on their pectoral fins and head. A balanced ratio is irrelevant unless breeding in ponds.

Feeding frequency

Once daily

Feed them daily, preferably in the evening just before turning off the aquarium lights. Being nocturnal, they are most active and prone to eating in the dark. Always remove leftover fresh vegetables the following morning.

Bioload

Extreme

This large species produces a massive amount of waste, resulting in a very high bioload. As they grow, their waste production becomes a significant challenge for water quality. Heavy-duty canister filtration and frequent, large water changes are absolutely necessary.

Flow

Strong

They tolerate a wide range of flow conditions but prefer moderate to strong currents. The strong flow helps replicate their native river environments and ensures high dissolved oxygen levels. Large powerheads are beneficial for maintaining this flow.

Jump risk

Yes

Jumping risk is minimal, though large individuals can easily splash water out of the tank. They are incredibly powerful and can dislodge poorly secured aquarium lids. A heavy, secure canopy is required to keep them contained and protect equipment.

Reproduction

Impossible (deep cave spawner)

Breeding them in a home aquarium is exceedingly rare due to their large size. They typically spawn in deep mud burrows along riverbanks in the wild. Commercial breeding is mostly done in large outdoor ponds.

Compatibility & tankmates

Highly aggressive

They are generally peaceful with fish that occupy the upper water column. However, they can become territorial towards other bottom dwellers as they mature. Do not keep them with slow, flat-bodied fish like discus, which they might latch onto to feed on their slime coat.

Tank level

Bottom

They exclusively inhabit the bottom levels and the glass surfaces of the aquarium. They require expansive floor space and large caves or driftwood structures for hiding. They will outgrow standard tanks quickly and need enormous enclosures.