Spotted Raphael Catfish care guide
Spotted Raphael Catfish (Agamyxis pectinifrons) — minimum tank 150 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 5.5-7.5.
Compiled by Aquairi from published sources · Published · Updated
Overview
The Spotted Raphael Catfish (Agamyxis pectinifrons) is an armoured doradid from the upper Amazon basin, recognised by a dark body covered with irregular pale yellow spots. The species is nocturnal and shelters during the day.
Taxonomy
- Family: Doradidae
- Genus: Agamyxis
- Scientific name: Agamyxis pectinifrons
- Common synonyms: Spotted Talking Catfish, Whitebarred Catfish
Habitat
Native to slow-flowing tributaries, flooded forests and oxbow lakes of the upper Amazon, Orinoco and Essequibo river systems in Peru, Brazil, Venezuela and Colombia.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 150 L (39.6 US gal)
- Adult size: 12-15 cm
- Temperature: 22-28 °C (72-82 °F)
- pH: 5.5-7.5
- GH: 2-15 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
Diet
A nocturnal omnivore. Offer sinking pellets, granules and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, earthworms and small shrimp.
Compatibility
A peaceful species toward larger tankmates but predatory toward small fish and shrimp. Keep with similarly sized peaceful companions in a tank of at least 150 L with abundant hiding places.
Breeding
Captive breeding is rarely reported and not well documented for the species.
Spotted Raphael Catfish Breeding Guide
Overview
The spotted raphael catfish (Agamyxis pectinifrons) is an armoured doradid from the Amazon basin of Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia and Peru, reaching 120-150 mm standard length. It is a hardy, nocturnal display catfish but is not a realistic breeding subject for the home aquarium.
Sexing
Mature females tend to be noticeably fuller-bodied than males. This is the primary visual distinction between the sexes; no other reliable external difference is reported.
Egg & Fry Care
Because natural spawning has not been observed in aquaria, there is no reliable account of egg or fry care for this species under home conditions. Any reproduction has relied on artificial hormone induction rather than spontaneous tank breeding.
Common Challenges
The natural cues that trigger spawning in this species have not been replicated in aquaria, so hobby breeding cannot be relied upon. Maintain the spotted raphael as a display fish at 22-26 °C and pH 5.5-7.5 with ample hiding places, and handle it with care because of its sharp pectoral and dorsal spines.