Can Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) Live Together?
Yes, Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) are ideal tank mates. Both species share compatible water parameters and peaceful temperaments, making them well-suited for a community aquarium. They occupy different areas of the water column, which reduces competition for space. A minimum tank size of 1135 litres is recommended.
At a Glance
Can your tank handle Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish)?
Compatibility is only part of the answer. Test both fish with your real tank size, current stock, and maintenance needs to see if you have enough space and a safe stocking level before you add them.
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Behaviour & Temperament
Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) is a peaceful species (2/10), while Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) is generally mild-mannered (4/10). This modest difference means Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) may occasionally assert dominance over Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish).
In terms of spatial distribution, Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) prefers the Middle (Open Water) and Top (Surface) zones, whereas Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) occupies the Bottom (Substrate) zone. Because they use different levels of the water column, territorial disputes are less likely and the tank will appear more balanced.
Worth noting: Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) is a known jumper, so a tight-fitting lid is essential.
Water Parameters
The safe temperature window for both species falls between 24°C and 28°C. Aim for the midpoint of this range (around 26.0°C) for optimal comfort.
Both fish can tolerate a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Maintaining a stable value within this band is more important than hitting an exact number.
For general hardness, the shared comfort zone is 5–12 dGH. Regular testing will ensure conditions stay within this range.
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Tank Setup
To house Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) together, plan for an aquarium of at least 1135 litres with a minimum length of 240 cm. This recommendation combines the stricter species minimums with a community-load allowance so the pairing has realistic long-term space and filtration headroom.
Providing a mix of open swimming space and sheltered areas with rocks, driftwood, or plants will keep both species comfortable and allow natural behaviour.
Specific environmental needs for this combination include: Driftwood (Digestion/Hiding), Plants - Densely covered, Sand (Sifters), Smooth Gravel (Sensitive Barbels). Meeting these requirements will help both species thrive.
Both species do well with moderate (standard) water movement, so a standard filtration setup rated for the tank volume should suffice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) live together?
Yes. Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) are considered ideal tank mates. Their water parameters, temperaments, and behaviour profiles are well matched for a community aquarium.
What size tank do Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) need?
A minimum of 1135 litres (tank length at least 240 cm) is recommended. This provides enough space for both species to establish their own areas and reduces the likelihood of territorial disputes.
What water temperature is best for Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) together?
Keep the aquarium between 24°C and 28°C. A target of around 26.0°C sits comfortably within both species' preferred ranges.
Are Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) or Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) aggressive?
Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) is peaceful (2/10) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) is generally mild-mannered (4/10). Their similar temperaments generally lead to a peaceful coexistence.
What pH do Debauwi Catfish (Three-Striped Glass Catfish) and Zebra Shovelnose (Tigrinus Catfish) need?
Both species overlap in the 6.5–7.5 pH range. Consistency is key — avoid sudden swings, and test regularly to stay within this window.
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