An extremely active, striking silver catfish with black spots and incredibly long barbels, native to South America. While peaceful toward similarly sized tank mates, they are highly effective nocturnal predators that will easily swallow small fish (like Neon Tetras) whole. They are scaleless and possess sharp pectoral spines that can easily become entangled in aquarium nets.
At a Glance
Tank Requirements
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Water Parameters
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Temperament & Compatibility
Available Varieties
Each variety inherits the species defaults above. Only differences are highlighted.
Standard
The standard commercial availability. Highly recommended to keep in groups of 3 or more to reduce skittishness and encourage natural daytime shoaling behavior. Must be kept with tank mates too large to fit in their mouths.
Differs in 1 trait from base species
Also known as: Spotted Pictus
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🟢Ideal Tank MatesPictus Catfish Care Guide Summary
The Pictus Catfish, scientifically known as Pimelodus pictus, belongs to the Catfish family group. Adults reach a maximum size of approximately 12 cm and have a fusiform body shape with a moderate growth rate. Classified as mostly peaceful, this species primarily occupies the mid-level and bottom zones of the aquarium and produces a medium level of biological waste.
To thrive, the Pictus Catfish requires a freshwater only aquarium with a minimum volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm. Water temperature should be maintained between 22°C and 26°C, with a pH range of 6–7.5 and a general hardness of 3–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred. An aquarium test kit can help you monitor these values.
Due to its specialist needs, the Pictus Catfish is best suited for fishkeepers who can provide a carefully planned setup. The Pictus Catfish is typically available in one standard form.
Pictus Catfish Habitat Setup
When setting up an aquarium for the Pictus Catfish, a moderate 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 a sand substrate to accommodate their sifting behaviour and smooth gravel or rounded substrate to protect their sensitive barbels. Browse aquarium sand substrate options to find the best fit.
Pictus Catfish Compatibility Notes
Classified as mostly peaceful, the Pictus Catfish 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, ornamental shrimp are not safe companions, 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.
Recommended Tank Sizes
Standard aquarium sizes that meet the minimum volume and length requirements for Pictus Catfish.
55 Gallon Standard
60 Gallon Breeder
75 Gallon Standard
90 Gallon Standard
125 Gallon Standard
150 Gallon High
Pictus Catfish Feeding & Diet Considerations
The Pictus 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, and is primarily active at dusk and dawn, so offering food shortly after lights-off ensures it receives adequate nutrition. Find quality Pictus Catfish fish food for this species.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pictus Catfish
How big does Pictus Catfish get?
Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) typically reaches a maximum adult size of approximately 12 cm. They have a fusiform body shape and a moderate growth rate.
What tank size does Pictus Catfish need?
A minimum aquarium volume of 200 litres and a tank length of at least 120 cm are recommended for Pictus Catfish. This ensures enough swimming space and helps maintain stable water conditions.
What water parameters does Pictus Catfish need?
Pictus Catfish thrives in freshwater only conditions with a temperature range of 22–26°C, a pH between 6 and 7.5, and a general hardness of 3–15 dGH. A moderate water flow is preferred.
Is Pictus Catfish peaceful or aggressive?
Pictus Catfish is classified as mostly peaceful with an aggression score of 4 out of 10. They are generally well-suited to peaceful community tanks.
Can Pictus Catfish live alone?
Yes, Pictus Catfish can be kept singly or in a group. They are flexible and adapt well to both setups.
Is Pictus Catfish safe with shrimp?
No. Pictus 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 Pictus Catfish have any special tank requirements?
Yes. Pictus Catfish benefits from sand (sifters) and smooth gravel (sensitive barbels) in the aquarium. These features help replicate their natural habitat and promote overall health and well-being.
Similar Species
Freshwater Angelfish
Pterophyllum scalare
The most iconic South American Cichlid, known for its distinct arrowhead shape and majestic fins. While domestic strains are hardy, they remain cichlids: they are semi-aggressive predators that will eat any fish small enough to fit in their mouths (like Neon Tetras). They form loose shoals as juveniles but pair off and become territorial as they mature. Height is more important than length for this species.
Striped Raphael Catfish
Platydoras armatulus
A highly robust, armored catfish native to the Amazon and Orinoco basins. Famous for their ability to produce audible squeaking or grunting sounds when distressed or defending territory. They are nocturnal scavengers that spend most of the day hiding in driftwood or caves. Note: Their rigid pectoral spines can easily become tangled in standard aquarium nets.
Green Terror
Andinoacara rivulatus
A large, incredibly colorful, and highly aggressive South American cichlid. Known for their striking metallic green/blue scales and vibrant orange or white tail margins. As their name suggests, they are highly territorial and require very careful tankmate selection, usually only coexisting with other large, robust cichlids or armored catfish in very large tanks.
Iridescent Shark
Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
The Iridescent Shark is not a true shark, but a highly active, schooling catfish native to Southeast Asia. While frequently sold as tiny juveniles, they are notorious 'tank busters' that grow to massive sizes. They are extremely skittish and easily spooked, often injuring themselves by crashing into aquarium glass. They are best suited for heated indoor ponds or massive custom aquariums.
Bronze Corydoras
Corydoras aeneus
A highly popular, peaceful schooling catfish known for its armor-like scales (scutes) and active bottom-feeding behavior. They are essential clean-up crew members but require a dedicated sinking diet (not just leftovers). Sand substrate is strictly required to prevent erosion and infection of their sensitive barbels. They are 'gut breathers' and will occasionally dart to the surface to gulp atmospheric air.
Twig Catfish (Farlowella)
Farlowella acus
The Twig Catfish is an extremely elongated, master-of-camouflage suckermouth catfish from South America. True to its name, it mimics a dead twig perfectly, spending most of its time motionless on branches or plant leaves. It is a specialized aufwuchs and algae grazer that requires a mature tank, high oxygenation, and plenty of driftwood. They are completely peaceful but highly sensitive to fluctuating water parameters.