The Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum, often referred to as the 'Barred Sorubim' or 'Tiger Shovelnose Catfish', is a large catfish native to the Amazon, Orinoco and Parana river basins in South America. The specimen shown here is a young individual measuring 12-15 cm, but beware: the adult species can reach ~90 cm.

Behaviour & maintenance

• Mainly nocturnal predator, hunting fish, crabs and invertebrates at the bottom of rivers.
• When young (12-15 cm), it is still "manageable", but do not underestimate its rapid growth.
• Requires a very large tank, plenty of swimming space and large companions that cannot be predicted.

Diet

• Carnivorous: prefer pieces of fish, shellfish and quality meat products.
• Feed a few times a week (and not in abundance every day) to avoid digestive overload and water pollution.

Water quality

• Temperature: 24 - 28°C recommended.
• pH: 6.0 - 8.0 tolerated.
• Very well filtered water, high oxygenation, no overpopulation.

Decor & environment

• Sandy soil or fine gravel, minimal but robust decor: large branches, very stable rocks.
• Minimum volume recommended for an adult: several hundred litres, ideally 1000 L+. This 12-15 cm juvenile can be kept temporarily in a smaller tank, but a very large tank should be provided as soon as possible.
• A well-covered tank, because this fish can jump if it is stressed or badly adapted.

Maintenance sheet

Aquabota tip

This fish should only be kept by experienced aquarists. Although it is offered at 12-15 cm, you should plan immediately for an adult tank. Use a minimal but robust decor, make frequent water changes (~20% / week) and make sure that the companions are large enough not to be predated. Install a reliable lid, as they can jump out, and keep a close eye on their growth to organise a rapid transition to a truly suitable volume.