Black Doradid Care Guide
Doras carinatus is a South American talking catfish from the Guianas that produces audible sounds with its pectoral spines.
Overview
Doras carinatus is a South American thorny catfish of the family Doradidae, often called a talking catfish. It can produce sounds by moving its pectoral spines, with FishBase reporting basic sound units of 60-70 milliseconds at 60-90 Hz. It reaches about 30 cm SL.
Taxonomy
- Family: Doradidae
- Genus: Doras
- Scientific name: Doras carinatus
Habitat
According to FishBase, the species occurs in the Essequibo River basin and other coastal drainages east to the mouth of the Amazon, with records from Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela. It is a demersal fish of tropical fresh and brackish waters. FishBase notes that lower Amazon and Orinoco populations may represent one or more undescribed species.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 250 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
The species is omnivorous and a bottom feeder. In the aquarium it does well on sinking prepared foods and meaty items offered near the substrate, typically once daily.
Compatibility
This nocturnal, peaceful bottom dweller benefits from hiding spots and a soft substrate. It suits medium to large community fish such as tetras and cichlids, but very small fish may be eaten and should be avoided as tankmates.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2021).