Bloch's Pimelodella (Pimelodella blochii) Care Guide
Pimelodella blochii is a slender South American three-barbeled catfish, nocturnal and predatory toward small fish, kept with caves and soft substrate.
Overview
Pimelodella blochii is a slender three-barbeled catfish of the family Heptapteridae from South America. It is a nocturnal, bottom-oriented species with long barbels, and like other members of its genus it is a predator that will take small fish.
Taxonomy
- Family: Heptapteridae (three-barbeled catfishes)
- Genus: Pimelodella
- Scientific name: Pimelodella blochii
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 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 carnivorous, hunting at night for small prey. In the aquarium it accepts meaty sinking foods, frozen and live items, and should be fed after lights-out to match its nocturnal activity.
Compatibility
Generally peaceful toward fish too large to swallow but a predator on small tankmates. House it with robustly sized companions such as larger tetras and cichlids, and avoid small fish. Provide caves, driftwood and a soft substrate.