Shovelnose Catfish

Geographic Origin and Biotope: Very wide distribution in the entire South American continent (Magdalena River, Amazon, Orinoco, Paraná basin). A swamp predator that inhabits slow coasts and reed beds clogged with intertwined roots and overhanging vegetation.

Taxonomy and Morphology: Lima Shovelnose Catfish (Sorubim lima). Extraordinary predatory catfish. Very dorso-ventrally compressed "hydrodynamic" body shape with the particularity of the very long "shovel" snout equipped with very extensive and elegant barbels.

Social Behavior: Unlike almost all huge solitary predatory Pimelodids, the Sorubim lima is highly sociable in its youth: it loves to hang vertically (upside down) in large groups, camouflaging itself among the aerial roots of the woods.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: The back is a fascinating gray/green or dark brown, divided by a very bright white lateral band surrounded by a thick lower black line ("tuxedo"). Adult males tend to be more slender than females.

Aquarium Setup: Requires "Monster" aquariums starting from 180-200 cm (72-80 inches) in length. Essential to install numerous and large branched woods oriented upwards in which they can station vertically. Dimly lit tank with few furnishings that hinder swimming.

Diet and Feeding: Greedy piscivore. Will not hesitate to devour any fish that enters its large "spatula" mouth. Accustom it immediately to inert feed (otherwise it will demand live fish): squid steaks, perch fillet, and large spongy pellets. Feed 1-2 times a week as adults.

Water Quality: Due to the immoderate carnivorous diet, superlative mechanical filtration is needed, combined with heavy weekly water changes. Likes high temperatures and a preferably neutral pH.

Compatibility and Tankmates: A calm companion for "Big Fish": rays (Potamotrygon), Oscars, large Severums, Arowanas and Datnioides of equal size. Any small or medium tetra (e.g. Neons, Cardinals, juvenile Angelfish) represents exclusively an expensive nocturnal meal.

Aquarium Reproduction: Totally absent. They are potamodromous migratory fish that in nature swim for hundreds of kilometers along the river to reach the breeding sites in the flooded plains. Unfeasible in closed aquariums.

Risks and Diseases: Categorically avoid sharp obstacles or small narrow refuges in which, fleeing suddenly, it could irremediably amputate its majestic barbels, condemning it to fatal stress. Avert toxic ammonia spikes post-meal.