Auchenipterus nuchalis Care Guide
Auchenipterus nuchalis is a free-swimming South American driftwood catfish active near the surface at dusk and at night.
Overview
Auchenipterus nuchalis is a South American driftwood catfish of the family Auchenipteridae. Unlike most catfish it is a free-swimming species found near the surface rather than a strict bottom-dweller. FishBase reports a maximum standard length of about 27 cm and notes that males develop thick, ossified maxillary barbels.
Taxonomy
- Family: Auchenipteridae
- Genus: Auchenipterus
- Scientific name: Auchenipterus nuchalis
Habitat
According to FishBase the species ranges across the lower Amazon and Tocantins rivers northward to the Marowijne River, and possibly the Rupununi River in Guyana and the Negro River in Brazil. It inhabits the lower courses of larger rivers, occurs less frequently in flood zones, and appears in large numbers in eroded zones.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 200 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Group size: 4 or more individuals
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
- Substrate: soft sand with driftwood and shaded retreats
Diet
The species is an omnivore that leans carnivorous. FishBase assigns it a trophic level near 3.6 and records that it feeds on smaller fish. In aquaria it accepts meaty foods such as frozen and live invertebrates, and over time prepared sinking foods.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful but predatory schooling catfish that occupies the upper and middle water column, becoming most active at dusk and at night. It is best kept in a group and combined with fish too large to be swallowed; very small tankmates may be eaten.
Breeding
FishBase records that the reproductive period occurs during the rainy season. As with other auchenipterids, the modified barbels of the male are associated with internal insemination. Captive breeding is rarely reported and is considered difficult.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 12 August 2020).