Driftwood Catfish (Tatia perugiae) Care Guide
Tatia perugiae is a small Amazonian driftwood catfish from swift river margins, peaceful and best kept with caves and wood.
Overview
Tatia perugiae is a small driftwood catfish of the family Auchenipteridae from the upper Amazon River basin. FishBase records a maximum size of 5.0 cm SL. It is a wood-associated species that shelters during the day and forages at night.
Taxonomy
- Family: Auchenipteridae (driftwood catfishes)
- Genus: Tatia
- Scientific name: Tatia perugiae
- Note: FishBase currently lists the valid name as Duringlanis perugiae (formerly placed in Centromochlus)
Habitat
FishBase reports the species inhabiting large rivers with swift currents, favoring littoral zones near shorelines with hard, sandy bottoms devoid of vegetation. The species epithet honors the Italian ichthyologist Alberto Perugia.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 100 L
- Temperature: 22-26 °C (72-79 °F)
- pH: 6.0-7.5
- GH: 2-12 °dGH
- Lifespan: 8-15 years
Diet
FishBase reports the species feeds on insects, mostly ants, beetles and mayflies. In the aquarium it accepts small sinking foods and frozen or live items such as bloodworms, fed after dark.
Compatibility
Peaceful and bottom-dwelling, it suits a community of similarly sized, calm fish with plenty of caves and driftwood. Avoid much larger or aggressive tankmates and very small fish or fry that could be eaten at night.
Breeding
FishBase notes the female guards the brood. Auchenipterids are known for internal fertilization.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Least Concern (assessed 2020).