Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark)

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.

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.

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) is best for a fishkeeper who expects a species with attitude and plans the tank around that behavior 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 smooth gravel.

The most common mistake is buying Chao Phraya Giant Catfish (Paroon Shark) for looks first and only later discovering how its adult size, behavior, or bioload changes the whole tank plan. Another frequent problem is forcing it into an over-busy community when it would do better with more room or more deliberate tankmate choices.

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.