Zebra Shovelnose Catfish Care Guide
Brachyplatystoma juruense is a large predatory catfish from the Amazon and Orinoco basins, reaching about 60 cm.
Overview
Brachyplatystoma juruense is a long-whiskered catfish of the family Pimelodidae, described by Boulenger in 1898. It is a striped South American predator sometimes called the zebra catfish or gold zebra pim. It is rare in the aquarium trade and reaches a large adult size, making it suitable only for very large or public aquariums.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pimelodidae
- Genus: Brachyplatystoma
- Scientific name: Brachyplatystoma juruense
Habitat
The species inhabits the Amazon and Orinoco river basins in South America, with records from regions of northwestern Brazil, Peru, and Venezuela. FishBase classifies it as a freshwater, demersal (bottom-dwelling) species of tropical waters.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 1200 L (317 gal)
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
FishBase reports a temperature range of 22-27 °C for the species. A maximum recorded length of about 60 cm total length is noted by FishBase.
Diet
This catfish is carnivorous. FishBase assigns it a high trophic level of about 4.5, consistent with a predatory diet. In captivity it takes meaty foods, typically offered once daily.
Compatibility
The species is a semi-aggressive, nocturnal, bottom-dwelling predator. Small fish that fit in its mouth are at risk and should be avoided. Soft substrate and hiding places suit its bottom-oriented behavior.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2020). The species has minor commercial fisheries value and is also kept in public aquariums.