A massive, striking Pimelodid catfish from South America. Known for its beautiful marbled pattern and remarkably long barbels. As a strictly predatory 'monster fish', it requires a gargantuan aquarium and massive filtration. While generally peaceful towards fish too large to swallow, it will eat anything that fits into its capacious mouth. Bare-bottom or soft sand is required to prevent fatal ingestion of gravel.
Achara Catfish At a Glance
Achara Catfish Tank Requirements
Will Achara Catfish fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Achara Catfish needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Achara Catfish against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
Achara Catfish Water Parameters
Achara Catfish Temperament & Compatibility
Achara Catfish Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard (Adult)
The fully mature Achara Catfish. Requires a deeply committed aquarist with a custom-built aquarium or indoor pond. Sand substrate is critical to prevent fatal ingestion of gravel. Must only be kept with very large, deep-bodied tank mates.
Same care requirements as the base species
Also known as: Adult, Full Grown
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Often sold at 10-15cm, juveniles will grow very rapidly and quickly outgrow standard aquariums. Can temporarily be housed in a 75-gallon (280L) tank but requires immediate planning for a 1500L+ upgrade within their first year.
Differs in 5 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Juvenile, Grow-out
Achara Catfish Care Guide Summary
The Achara Catfish, scientifically known as Leiarius marmoratus, belongs to the Catfish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 80 cm and have a depressed body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as semi-aggressive, this species primarily occupies the bottom zone of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Achara Catfish requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 1500 litres and a tank length of at least 240 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Achara Catfish is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 2 varieties: Standard (Adult) and Juvenile (Grow-out). Each may differ slightly in size, temperament, or care needs, so it is worth checking the specific requirements of the variety you plan to keep.
Achara Catfish Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Achara Catfish, a moderate water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the bottom zone, the aquarium layout should prioritise sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour, smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, and driftwood, which can serve as both a hiding place and a dietary supplement. Keepers should note that expect substrate disturbance, so lightweight décor should be secured.
Achara Catfish Compatibility Notes
Classified as semi-aggressive, the Achara Catfish is best housed alone, as they do not tolerate others of their kind in confined spaces. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten and ornamental shrimp are not safe companions. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the bottom zone can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Who Achara Catfish Is Actually For
Achara Catfish is best for a fishkeeper who wants a species that can settle into a calmer community setup and can provide someone who understands its individual space requirements. It makes the most sense for a hobbyist who will actually build around its needs, especially sand.
The most common mistake is treating Achara Catfish like any other community fish and skipping the soft sand it needs to forage safely. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.
Achara Catfish Feeding & Diet Considerations
The Achara Catfish is a predatory species that will readily consume small fish, so nano or bite-sized tankmates should be avoided, will hunt and eat ornamental shrimp, making it unsuitable for shrimp-focused setups, will eat fry, so breeding efforts in the same tank are unlikely to succeed, and is primarily active at dusk and dawn, so offering food shortly after lights-off ensures it receives adequate nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions About Achara Catfish
How big does Achara Catfish get?
Achara Catfish (Leiarius marmoratus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 80 cm. They have a depressed body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Achara Catfish need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 1500 litres and a tank length of at least 240 cm are recommended for Achara Catfish. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Achara Catfish need?
Achara Catfish thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–28°C, a pH between 6 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 4–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Achara Catfish peaceful or aggressive?
Achara Catfish is classified as semi-aggressive with an aggression score of 6 out of 10. They can work in community setups but may clash with certain tankmates.
Can Achara Catfish live with others of its kind?
No. Only one Achara Catfish should be kept per tank. Keeping multiples in the same aquarium typically results in aggression and stress.
Is Achara Catfish safe with shrimp?
No. Achara Catfish is known to eat ornamental shrimp and is not recommended for shrimp tanks. Even larger shrimp species like Amano Shrimp may be at risk.
Does Achara Catfish have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Achara Catfish benefits from sand (sifters), smooth gravel (sensitive barbels), and driftwood (digestion/hiding) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Useful setup supplies
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Guidarium Editorial Desk
Reviewed against Guidarium care, stocking, and compatibility standards. Read the editorial policy.
- Last reviewed
- May 1, 2026
- Last updated
- May 1, 2026
- Issues or corrections?
- Contact the editorial team
Plants That Suit Achara Catfish
These plants pair well with Achara Catfish based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
Anubias Barteri
Anubias barteri
Belinda's Buce
Bucephalandra belindae
Buce Motleyana
Bucephalandra motleyana
Christmas Moss
Vesicularia montagnei
Congo Anubias
Anubias heterophylla
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