Orinoco Sailfin Catfish (Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus) Care Guide
Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus is a heavy-bodied sailfin armoured catfish native to the Orinoco basin that needs a very large, well-filtered aquarium.
Overview
Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus is a large, heavy-bodied suckermouth armoured catfish of the family Loricariidae, native to the Orinoco River basin. It is a nocturnal, benthic species with a tall sailfin dorsal. Adults require a very large aquarium with driftwood, caves and strong, well-oxygenated filtration.
Taxonomy
- Family: Loricariidae
- Genus: Pterygoplichthys
- Scientific name: Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus
Habitat
The species is native to the Orinoco River basin. According to FishBase it occurs in streams, lakes and weedy, mud-bottomed canals, and is a facultative air-breather. It has been introduced to Taiwan, the mainland United States and Hawaii.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 600 L
- Temperature: 24-28 °C (75-82 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-12 years
Diet
The species feeds primarily on algae and also consumes worms, insect larvae and other bottom-dwelling aquatic animals. In aquaria it accepts algae-based and vegetable foods, fed about once daily.
Compatibility
This is a peaceful bottom dweller. Its large adult size and heavy bioload mean tankmates should be robust mid-water species in a large system, and other territorial plecos are best avoided.
Breeding
FishBase reports male parental care, with males digging burrows for egg-laying and spawning peaking annually. Maturity is reached at about 32.5 cm (range 25-40 cm). Captive breeding is regarded as advanced and is rarely achieved in home aquaria.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List assesses Pterygoplichthys multiradiatus as Least Concern (assessed 24 August 2020).