Iridescent Shark (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) Care Guide
A massive catfish that grows to 130cm and is absolutely NOT suitable for home aquariums despite being commonly sold as a juvenile. A nervous, fast-swimming fish that needs enormous tanks or ponds.
Overview
Pangasianodon hypophthalmus is a species in the family Pangasiidae. A massive catfish that grows to 130cm and is absolutely NOT suitable for home aquariums despite being commonly sold as a juvenile. A nervous, fast-swimming fish that needs enormous tanks or ponds. Often sold irresponsibly to unsuspecting beginners.
Taxonomy
- Family: Pangasiidae
- Genus: Pangasianodon
- Scientific name: Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
- Other names: Pangasius, Sutchi Catfish
- Origin: Southeast Asia
Habitat
Pangasianodon hypophthalmus is a large migratory catfish from the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins of Southeast Asia. An active open-water swimmer that grows to well over a metre, it is unsuitable for typical home aquariums despite being sold small.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 3000 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 2-20 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 60-130 cm
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Recommended group size: ≥ 3
- Difficulty: advanced
Diet
Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.
Compatibility
- Temperament: peaceful
- Position in tank: middle
- Compatible tank mates: Other Large Fish, Arowana
- Avoid with: Small Fish, Slow Fish, All Home Aquarium Fish
Breeding
- Breeding strategy: egg-scatterer
- Breeding difficulty: advanced