Red Lizard Whiptail

Catfish – Care Guide & Aquarium Companions

Catfish are one of the most diverse groups of freshwater aquarium fish, ranging from small peaceful bottom dwellers to large predatory species. They are known for their distinctive barbels, unique body shapes and interesting feeding behaviour.

Popular aquarium catfish include Corydoras, Plecos, Synodontis, Pictus Catfish, Glass Catfish, Banjo Catfish and many more.

Because catfish vary greatly in size, temperament and diet, it is important to identify the exact species before adding one to your aquarium.

Aquarium Care

Tank Size:
Tank size depends heavily on the species. Smaller catfish may be suitable for aquariums of around 40–75 litres, while larger varieties can require tanks of 200 litres or more.

Water Temperature:
Generally 22°C – 28°C, depending on the species.

pH Range:
Approximately 6.0 – 8.0, depending on the species and natural habitat.

Aquarium Setup

Most catfish appreciate aquariums with plenty of hiding areas and suitable bottom space.

A good setup may include:

• Fine sand or smooth gravel

• Driftwood

• Rocks

• Caves and hiding spaces

• Live plants

• Good filtration

• Clean, oxygen-rich water

• Open areas for foraging

Avoid sharp substrate or decorations, especially for species with sensitive barbels.

Feeding

Catfish have different dietary requirements depending on the species.

Suitable foods may include:

• Sinking pellets

• Catfish wafers

• Algae wafers

• Bloodworms

• Brine shrimp

• Krill

• Frozen foods

• Live foods

• Vegetable-based foods

• Spirulina-based foods

Some species are mainly herbivorous, while others are omnivorous or carnivorous.

Catfish should not be expected to survive only on leftover food from other fish.

Behaviour & Temperament

Catfish behaviour varies greatly between species.

Some, such as Corydoras, are peaceful and social and should be kept in groups.

Others may be territorial, nocturnal or predatory.

Many catfish are most active during the evening and night and may spend the daytime resting under driftwood or inside caves.

Suitable Tank Companions

Peaceful catfish can often be kept with:

Tetras • Rasboras • Gouramis • Danios • Rainbowfish • Rams • Peaceful Barbs • Loaches • Plecos and other compatible community fish

Large or predatory catfish should only be kept with appropriately sized tank companions.

Avoid keeping very small fish or shrimp with larger predatory species, as they may be eaten.

Important Note

The term catfish covers thousands of different species, and their adult size, diet and temperament can vary dramatically.

Some remain only a few centimetres long, while others can grow extremely large.

Always check the exact species before choosing:

• Aquarium size

• Tank companions

• Water parameters

• Diet

• Group size

With proper identification, suitable feeding, clean water and adequate hiding spaces, catfish can be some of the most interesting and rewarding fish in a freshwater aquarium.