An apex predator native to the Mekong and Chao Phraya basins. This true 'monster fish' is completely unsuitable for home aquariums. They grow to massive proportions, are highly active, and easily startled—often severely injuring themselves by crashing into tank walls. They possess a massive appetite and are highly piscivorous, consuming any tank mate that fits in their mouth.
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) At a Glance
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Tank Requirements
Will Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) fit in your tank?
Care guides tell you what Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) needs, the next question is whether your tank can safely provide it. Test Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) against your tank size, maintenance needs, and the fish you already keep before you buy.
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Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Water Parameters
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Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Temperament & Compatibility
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Adult (Standard Form)
The true adult form. Extremely rare in private captivity due to immense spatial requirements. Basically requires an indoor pond or public aquarium to turn around without spinal deformities or snout injuries.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Adult, Full Grown, Monster
Juvenile (Grow-out)
Commonly sold in the trade at this size. Grows incredibly fast and has an insatiable appetite. Requires a strict upgrade plan as they will quickly outgrow standard aquariums, eating smaller tank mates along the way.
Differs in 4 traits from base species
Also known as: Baby, Paroon Shark Pup, Juvenile
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Care Guide Summary
The Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark), scientifically known as Pangasius sanitwongsei, belongs to the Catfish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 250 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a fast growth rate. Classified as aggressive, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a extreme level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 15000 litres and a tank length of at least 600 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 24°C and 28°C, with a pH range of 6.5–7.5 and a general hardness of 2–15 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.
Due to its specialist needs, the Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. This species is available in 2 varieties: Adult (Standard Form) 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.
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark), a high water flow best suits their natural preferences. Because this species occupies the mid-level and bottom zones, the aquarium layout should prioritise open swimming space in the centre of the tank for free movement and sufficient floor space with hiding spots among rocks, wood, or dense planting. Useful additions include smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Keepers should note that a tight-fitting lid is essential, as this species is a known jumper.
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Compatibility Notes
Classified as aggressive, the Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is adaptable and can be kept singly or in a small group, offering flexibility when planning a community tank. When choosing tankmates, any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will likely be eaten, shy or slow-feeding tankmates may be outcompeted at feeding time, and their energetic swimming style may stress more sedentary or timid species. Selecting tankmates that favour different water layers from the mid-level and bottom zones can help reduce competition and territorial overlap.
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) Feeding & Diet Considerations
The Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is a predatory species that will readily consume small fish, so nano or bite-sized tankmates should be avoided and is an aggressive eater that may prevent timid tankmates from getting enough food, so target feeding or simultaneous feeding at opposite ends of the tank can help.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark)
How big does Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) get?
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) (Pangasius sanitwongsei) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 250 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a fast growth rate.
What tank size does Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 15000 litres and a tank length of at least 600 cm are recommended for Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark). This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) need?
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 24–28°C, a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 2–15 dGH. A high water flow is preferred.
Is Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) peaceful or aggressive?
Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is classified as aggressive with an aggression score of 8 out of 10. Careful tankmate selection is essential to avoid conflict.
Can Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) live alone?
Yes, Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Does Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) benefits from smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Does Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) need a lid on the tank?
Yes. Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) is a known jumper, and a tight-fitting lid or cover is essential to prevent escape. Even a small gap can be enough for a determined fish to leap out.
Plants That Suit Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark)
These plants pair well with Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) based on shared water preferences, layout fit, and how likely they are to hold up in the same aquarium.
African Water Fern
Bolbitis heudelotii
Boivin's Aponogeton
Aponogeton boivinianus
Capuron's Aponogeton
Aponogeton capuronii
Madagascar Lace Plant
Aponogeton madagascariensis
African Onion Plant
Crinum calamistratum
Afzel's Anubias
Anubias afzelii
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