Details of all species referred to in these Fish Care Sheets can be found in the FBAS Booklet No 6 - National Show Fish Sizes. Click HERE for information.

                                       Large Catfish (3)           

Genera : Brachyrhamdia, Phractocephalus, Leiarius, etc

Family : Pimelodidae

Geographic Origin : From Mexico to Argentina.

Common Names : False Cory, Red-tail Cat, Marbled Antennae Catfish

Compatibility : The small species, like Brachyrhamdia, are fine with community
                       fish providing they are too large to consume. Most species
                       grow very large and are total predators. In the wild, they are
                       primarily food fish.
                       Before considering keeping the larger species (which grow
                       rapidly from perhaps innocently-purchased small specimens!)
                       thorough research through specialist books is essential.

Minimum aquarium size : The large species can grow to two metres so,
                                     obviously, very large tanks are necessary!

Temperature : In the range 20^o to 26⁰C.

Habitat : The large species are usually kept in tanks with few furnishings.
               Large diameter plastic or earthenware pipes make suitable 'hiding'
               places.

Water Parameters : Are found in soft water but will adapt to hard.
                             Many are very fussy' regarding water changes and pre-
                             conditioned water is often necessary.
                             Because they can be large fish and consequently have large
                             appetites, they need very efficient filtration systems. External filters (often several) are essential.

Health : Generally not unhealthy but chlorine 'burn' on some species can be
             a problem.

Diet : Many of the Pimelodidae are carnivores so, choice of tank mates is
          important. Most will eat frozen prawns when they are small but as they
         grow, more substantial food is required. As feeding of live fish is
         unacceptable, most can be trained to eat frozen fish / 'crab' sticks etc.

Plants : Unless they are very firmly attached to rockwork, they will be
            uprooted.

Availability : Often available, usually in specialist fish shops.

Show Class :F.B.A.S. Show Class G or Ga

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©FBAS PWC/RCM                                      Fish Care Sheet No 14 3/3

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