Spotted Raphael Catfish care guide

Spotted Raphael Catfish (Agamyxis pectinifrons) — minimum tank 150 L, temperature 22-28 °C, pH 5.5-7.5.

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.