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Catfish aquarium varieties description. Aquarium catfish. Types of aquarium catfish: description and photo. Glass catfish, or ghost catfish

Aquarium catfish live and breed well in captivity. They differ from other fish in the absence of scales, but some species, such as the family of chain catfish, have fused plates throughout the body, resembling a shell. Representatives of this family inhabit fresh water bodies, so they are perfect for an aquarium. In nature, there are more than 2 thousand catfish of various sizes and colors.

Catfish aquarium fish are orderlies. They like to swim closer to the bottom of glass ponds, where it is darker than on the surface, and pick up food debris from stones and clean microorganisms and silt from them.

In one aquarium, both small and large representatives of the catfish family coexist. The size of giant catfish suitable for home breeding reaches 35 cm. It is this length that the brocade pterygoplicht has in its adult state.

Most catfish are unpretentious in food, but there are also predators, because of which fish often disappear. A very interesting representative of catfish is the sac-gill catfish. It is distinguished from other individuals by the presence of poisonous spikes, the injection of which is painful, although not fatal.

Popular types of aquarium catfish

Only a few varieties of aquarium catfish are found in domestic waters. Among beginners and professionals, the family of chain catfish is popular.

They are distinguished by the presence of bony plates that cover the elongated body. Males are usually longer and brighter than females. In adults, tentacules grow on the head - numerous outgrowths. In nutrition, chain catfish are unpretentious. Their diet consists of plants, but they will also enjoy eating bloodworms or sea fish fillets.

Common types of aquarium catfish:

Antennous or pymelod catfish. In nature, they live in rivers, so in captivity they require only filtered, oxygenated water. They do not have suckers, unlike most species of catfish, so they lead a mobile lifestyle. Antennae are very small in size - up to 5 centimeters, but there are also real giants that grow up to 60 cm in length.
Agamixes. These peaceful fish reach 10 cm in length. They are known for their love of nightlife, so during the day they prefer to hide in shelters. Agamiks love to dig in the silt that settles to the bottom, so their appearance can be understood from the clouds of turbidity. To enjoy your pet, it is better to place it in an aquarium with coarse-grained soil.
. These orderly catfish feel great in large aquariums along with other representatives of their kind. Plant foods are preferred, therefore, with its lack, they can eat algae. During the day, pterygoplichts hide in shelters, which is why a house for fish and a lot of vegetation must be in the home pond.
Ancistrus. This one comes in 30 varieties. Avid aquarists often call the fish sticky, as they are larger than 10 cm and feed exclusively on plant foods. They will not refuse cabbage leaves and spinach scalded with boiling water, as well as pumpkin and a piece of cucumber.
. Another representatives of chain catfish. The most famous of them are speckled catfish () and. These fish are distinguished by bizarre coloring and the presence of 3 pairs of antennae.
Loricaria. Belongs to the shell family. The size of an adult fish reaches 12 cm, while males are much slimmer than females and are distinguished by a characteristic fleecy brush on their chest.

Catfish do not eat garbage and food waste, so you should not start them only for these purposes. They also need care, special living conditions and quality food.

Choosing and arranging an aquarium

Aquarium catfish is an unpretentious fish. For keeping at home, you will need a spacious aquarium with a wide bottom. The only important condition is that the water should be replaced in time in the tank and a good filtration system should be present.

Volume

A home pond should be chosen depending on the size of the aquarium fish that will live in it. If for small species of catfish there is enough capacity, with a volume of 50–200 liters, then for larger representatives, the minimum tank volume is 300 liters.

Decor

The aquarium should have houses for fish, as without shelter they will be uncomfortable. Usually for this, there should be enough driftwood and stones in the aquarium so that the catfish can hide under them during the day, and have a good rest before dusk. Since most catfish lead a solitary lifestyle, without good hiding place they may suffer greatly.

Water

Aquarium catfish should be kept in clean, filtered, unsalted water, as they prefer fresh water in nature. Fluid temperature should be 22-28°C. Thanks to skin respiration and the ability to breathe ordinary air, catfish rise to the surface, filling their lungs. This quality makes the fish unpretentious to the oxygen regime.

Lighting

Most catfish living at home choose the dark time of the day to stay awake. Therefore, it is not necessary to additionally supply the aquarium with lighting fixtures. They are comfortable with subdued light, and if it is possible to organize a constant penumbra for them, then the fish will be able to swim out in the daytime.

Plants

Vegetation is recommended to choose depending on the type of catfish that will live in the aquarium. For vegetarian fish that eat exclusively plant foods, it is better to organize artificial algae plantings. Natural ones will be eaten very quickly. Of the living plants, only representatives with a good root system, such as cryptocorynes and echinodorus, are suitable.

Priming

Aquarium catfish are not whimsical in the choice of soil. Some species that love to "comb" the bottom of the tank raise clouds of turbidity if strewn with sand. For them, it is better to choose coarse-grained soil. The only exception is gravel, which can damage the belly and antennae of the fish.

Caring for catfish in an aquarium will not cause much trouble to the owner. An important condition for the residence of these fish is timely feeding. If shelters are equipped in the reservoir, algae grow, a comfortable temperature and water hardness are provided, then caring for them is a pleasure.

What to feed catfish

Feeding catfish will also not cause much trouble for the owner. If other fish live in the aquarium, you do not need to specially feed the catfish. They perfectly feed on the remnants of food lying on the bottom, while cleaning it out, so they do not have to be specially fed. Fish pieces, shrimp and flakes sold in pet stores are ideal as food for aquarium catfish. In addition, small neighbors in the aquarium can become food for predatory representatives. When choosing such species, you need to remember that catfish can eat small fish.

How long do catfish live

Most major representatives living in nature can live up to 100 years, but domestic fish are not so long-lived. Depending on the type of catfish and the conditions of its maintenance, the average life expectancy of catfish is 8 years, provided that aquarium catfish live in suitable conditions.

Compatibility with other fish

When buying fish, you need to know exactly who the catfish get along with in the aquarium, because each species has its own preferences.

In life, these catfish are very peaceful, they do not start fights with other inhabitants of the reservoir, but they can conflict with each other. Their only threat comes from big fish, for example, large astronotus, which are able to swallow their prey whole.

Some species of speckled catfish will not get along with tail-biting fish.

Catfish are not compatible with small fish such as guppies or neons - they can become food for predators. It is better to add herbivorous species of catfish to such neighbors.

reproduction

You can stimulate the reproduction of catfish by lowering the temperature of the water in the aquarium. The spawning period lasts up to 5 days, and at this time the female and several males must be transplanted into a spawning tank - a special container with a volume of 30 to 70 liters. You can also breed fish in a plastic basin if there is no other free container. It is advisable to additionally equip with snags and plants so that the fish feel comfortable. Suitable water temperature for breeding catfish is 18–20 °C.

The main thing is to correctly determine the sex of the fish. Usually it is not difficult to distinguish a female from a male, the male has a brighter color and a slender body. Changes in water temperature accelerate the onset of spawning. Courtship lasts about 1 week, while the male tries to show himself in all its glory. He circles around the lady, trying to arouse her interest. When the female pays attention to him, the male touches her with his antennae, showing his readiness to breed.

Conclusion

It is interesting to watch aquarium catfish - they either crawl on the glass, clearing them of silt, or “comb” the bottom in search of food debris, or hide in shelters. It is their active life that makes catfish so attractive among other fish species. It is noteworthy that even a beginner in the aquarium trade will be able to find a suitable pet for himself, thanks to the large number and variety of species of the catfish family.

Aquarists love catfish for their unusual appearance, the ability of some species to grow to impressive sizes, as well as decorativeness. There are incredibly many types of aquarium catfish, some of them are even remotely similar to catfish. There are species that completely change our understanding of catfish, and some can truly compete with any goldfish in an aquarium.

Types of aquarium catfish

armored representative. Almost all of this family of fish have a calm disposition. Compatible marble aquarium catfish with any other species, prefers to live in flocks and in aquariums with sandy soil.

Redtail aquarium catfish also applies to decorative species. It is this species that grows by leaps and bounds. And at the same time, fish grow to very impressive sizes. Therefore, it is worth keeping them young. Most often, you can find this inhabitant at the bottom of the aquarium, where he prefers to rest.

Aquarium sucker catfish got its name due to the unusual structure of the mouth. Their correct name is ancitruses. These fish are also the orderlies of your aquarium, they are completely unpretentious. This one is also lovers of life at the bottom of the aquarium, peaceful and will not get along except with cichlids. Cichlids will begin to gnaw at the fins of catfish and thereby harm them.

Aquarium catfish killer whale a representative of the inhabitants of South Asia, in an aquarium it will grow no longer than 12 cm. Such a fish needs space, therefore, an aquarium of at least 100 liters is suitable for it. Aquarium catfish of this species prefers life in the water column, but activity occurs at night. It is important for this fish to have a sufficient number of all kinds of decorations and snags at the bottom.

Tiger aquarium catfish also called brindle pseudoplatystomy. Starting these fish, be prepared for their shy disposition, sweeping away everything in its path. The fish will grow big, therefore, it immediately needs a large aquarium, so for an adult couple you need about 1000 liters. According to the size, it is desirable to cover the bottom with large stones or pebbles. If possible, do not add shy ones to this species, as this will only increase fear.

Aquarium catfish cat already by its name is of interest to any aquarist. They got their name for their cute and mustachioed muzzle. This species is unpretentious in food, but the quality of water plays an important role. Therefore, constant filtration, aeration and water replacement are mandatory conditions.

aquarium striped catfish or the so-called singing catfish. Wide bright stripes of white and black colors go along the entire body of the fish. This representative of the armored ones boasts incredibly strong armor in the form of bone growths on the body. In addition to their strength, these growths have small spikes, which gives the fish excellent protection.

Spotted aquarium catfish or cuckoo catfish- representative of the people of Africa. The species got its name for a reason: after spawning, the fish act in exactly the same way as the bird known to everyone. The fish are incredibly active and can chase each other for hours in the water column.

quite rightly got its name, as it looks like a killer whale, but only in miniature. Pangasius, this is the second name of the aquarium shark catfish, has a flat head shape, as well as two pairs of whiskers and fins that are very reminiscent of sharks. The fish is quite nimble, while also very shy. To keep an aquarium catfish, you will need an aquarium of at least 300 liters. It is very good if the bottom is decorated with a lot of all sorts of snags and shelters for the fish.

Common catfish, speckled, corridor - all these names refer to representatives of the callicht family, or armored catfish. This species inhabits freshwater reservoirs with dense vegetation in Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina and other countries. South America. Many of the representatives of the Corydoras species have taken a strong place among experienced aquarists and amateurs due to their interesting behavior, a peculiar look and unique coloring.

It is not possible to list in one article all representatives of corridor catfish, therefore we focus only on those who have gained great popularity among aquarists.

Venezuelan (lat. Corydoras aeneus var. venezuelanus orange)

Size: up to 5 cm. Water for keeping this type of catfish should be soft with low acidity, with a constant temperature of 25 to 27 ° C. To get the maximum saturation of the color of the fish most the aquarium must be densely planted with plants.

Catfish avoid open space and do not like bright lighting, as well as heightened attention, and hide, so it is better to feed them at dusk, in the evening.

When the water changes with a decrease in temperature, spawning is stimulated. Each female lays 30-40 eggs, which hatch after four days and after another three days the fry can be fed.

Venezuelan Corridor.

Golden (lat. Corydoras aeneus)

Size: up to 6 cm. The content of this species should occur in soft water (up to 10 parts of calcium oxide) at a temperature range of 23 to 25°C.

Very mobile and active during the day, unpretentious to the quality of water and getting along well with its neighbors armored catfish.

Easily breeds in the general aquarium. Spawning often occurs at night. The female is very productive and lays up to 500 eggs, from which the larvae emerge in three days. After another three days, the fry can be transferred to feeding with cultivated microorganisms. Various color variants of these catfish are known and it has not yet been determined whether they can be classified as a type of golden corridor.

Golden corridor.

Axelrod (lat. Corydoras axelrodi)

Size: up to 5 cm. They feel most comfortable in soft water with a temperature of 24 to 26 ° C. Axelrod's catfish is well known and common among aquarists. Care is not difficult, acclimatized catfish spend days looking for food, for which there are no special requirements.

With abundant and regular feeding, females quickly leave for spawning. The number of eggs in a clutch is about 40, but cases of spawning up to 100 eggs are known. Caviar is small, 1.5 mm in diameter, attached by the female to the underside of plant leaves. The release of the fry from the eggs occurs after four days, and after three days of its formation, feeding with brine shrimp is recommended.

Axelrod's corridor.

Spotted-tailed (lat. Corydoras caudimaculatus)

Size: up to 6 cm. The recommended water temperature for spotted catfish is from 20 to 26°C. Catfish that prefers soft clear water with low acidity, as well as without nitrates and weekly replacement of up to 30% of the total volume of the aquarium.

With a varied diet, they spawn very willingly and regularly without lowering the water temperature. Caviar, about 2 mm in size, matures for three days, after which the larvae emerge, which feed on the yolk sac for three days, and after another two days they successfully cope with the planktonic organism - ciliates. The growth of this species is most noticeable in the first two months after hatching, and when a size of 2 cm is reached, the growth rate slows down.

Gossi (lat. Corydoras gossei)

Size: up to 6 cm. For keeping this type of catfish, soft water with a temperature of 24 to 26 ° C is preferable. After mastering a permanent habitat, it is not too whimsical in content, so it is suitable even for not very experienced aquarists. In darkened aquariums with a large number of plants, it acquires a contrasting color, which is inherent even in fry.

Female gossi catfish are very productive and, depending on size, age and condition, can lay from 80 to 300 eggs. Three days after maturation, larvae emerge from the eggs, which, after two days of adaptation, successfully eat Artemia nauplii and enchyteria worms.

Gossi corridor.

Diagonal striped (lat. Corydoras melini)

Size: up to 6 cm. Its content should occur in soft water, the temperature of which is in the range from 20 to 26 ° C. The soil should be sandy, coarse sand or fine stone without sharp edges.

When breeding, it is recommended to transplant into a separate aquarium, where the female scatters eggs all over the bottom. The larvae emerge after two days, and after they have absorbed the yolk sac (three days), it is best to feed the fry with brine shrimp nauplii.

Diagonal corridor.

Napo (lat. Corydoras napoensis)

Size: up to 5 cm. The water temperature for maintenance should be between 23 and 25 ° C with a calcium content of up to 10% (soft).

A distinctive feature of this species is the manifestation of a clear and complete color in a darkened aquarium with plants floating on the surface of the water. Unlike other representatives of the corridors with a similar color, napo have black spots on the caudal fin.

These catfish should not be kept with large fish of other species. Spawning takes place in free water, in close proximity to the surface. During the mating season, the sides of the males are cast in purple.

Females lay up to 300 eggs 1 mm in size in plant bushes and near them. Caviar maturation takes four days, after three days after the release of the larvae, the fry are ready to eat microscopic worms and ciliates. The growth rate of catfish napo is very slow.

Napo corridor.

Speckled (lat. Corydoras paleatus)

Size: up to 6 cm. For comfortable keeping, the water should be soft, with a temperature of 22 to 26 ° C. Spotted catfish are active during the day and can be kept with most species of peaceful fish.

Cool water is suitable for reproduction (in warm water, the rate of fertilization sharply decreases). The female lays up to 250 eggs, from which larvae emerge after four days, and after another two days the fry begin to feed on their own, preferring brine shrimp nauplii in the feed. A fast growth rate after 2-3 months gives a high similarity with the parents.

Mottled corridor.

Panda (lat. Corydoras panda)

Size: up to 5 cm. Soft water with a temperature of 22 to 25 ° C provides this species with good health and active behavior in aquarium. Panda catfish need good aeration, filtration and regular water changes, as well as hiding places and a few shaded areas with plants. Pandas have shown the possibility of keeping them with various small tetras and dwarf cichlids.

Reproduction in panda catfish is all-season. The female lays up to 20 eggs in small-pinnate plants or Javanese moss. After four days, larvae appear, which begin to feed on brine shrimp nauplii after another two days. This type of representatives of the corridor is characterized by a very slow growth rate.

For its interesting color and behavior, the panda catfish has firmly established itself among aquarists and has become very widespread.

Panda corridor.

Sterba (lat. Corydoras sterbai)

Size: up to 6 cm. Heat-loving species of catfish that prefers clear water (soft with low acidity) and water temperature from 24 to 28 ° C. Good aeration is essential for the successful maintenance of Sterba catfish. Carefully designed diet has importance for the Sterba corridor. This species does not tolerate starvation, so it needs to be fed frequently and in a timely manner.

Large females of this species can lay up to 200 eggs, attaching them, if possible, to the substrate located on the current. After four days of maturation, the eggs hatch into larvae, which on the third day are already free to move around the aquarium and eat starter feed.

It should be noted that the fry are very sensitive to an increase in pH, therefore, the purity and constancy of the composition of the water in the first three weeks will ensure good survival of the young. At the age of one month, the fry become more hardy and less demanding on water, and their further maintenance does not present serious problems.

Sterba corridor.

Corridors: care and maintenance

The presented types of corridors should be grouped in 5-20 pieces. The size of the species aquarium for catfish should be at least 54 liters, while keeping the same flock in the general aquarium, the volume should be at least 160 liters, with the exception of panda catfish, which need a smaller volume of the general aquarium - 112 liters.

Females are distinguished by their larger size and wider back. And only two species have other, more pronounced differences - the males of the corridor are smaller than the females and have a clearer pattern, and the males of the speckled catfish are much smaller and more elegant.

The diet for all the presented types of corridors is recommended to be dry, frozen and.

Like labyrinths, corridors can also breathe atmospheric air. They do not have a labyrinth apparatus, so catfish swim to the surface of the water, swallow an air bubble and absorb oxygen through the gastrointestinal tract.

Corridors do not tolerate well salt water, therefore, it is not recommended to use salt with them for the treatment and prevention of diseases in an aquarium with them.

Although some species have slight differences in the spawning process, in general it is the same. The stimulus is an increase in protein feed in the diet, a decrease in temperature and frequent water changes. Spawning is usually group, males begin to drive females, and they, in turn, choose a male, collect his milk in their mouths, and lay eggs in special pockets on their fins. After that, she chooses the most attractive surface for laying, lubricates it with the milk of the male and lays eggs on it.

Parents do not care about the offspring and may even pose a danger to him, so adult fish are removed from the spawning ground after breeding. If spawning took place in a common aquarium, then the eggs are carefully removed from the surfaces or removed with a blade if the eggs are stuck to the glass.

Dwarf, or the smallest catfish

The most popular among dwarf catfish are:

sparrow catfish (eye-tailed catfish, sickle-shaped carapace);
pygmy catfish;
catfish habrosus (corridor crumb).

These representatives are types of armored corridors found in South America.

It is better to keep the smallest catfish in flocks of 10-30 pieces, the volume of the species aquarium is 40 liters, and the total is 54 liters, while good aeration and water filtration should be ensured.

When creating an aquarium interior, you need to plant an abundant amount of plants, add shelters and driftwood. Fine-grained stones without sharp edges, coarse-grained sand can be used as soil.

Variety with veiled fins.

Pygmy catfish (lat. Corydoras pygmaeus)

The maximum size of a catfish reaches 3 cm. This type of corridor prefers the middle layers of soft water with a temperature of 20 to 26°C. With the pygmy corridor it is possible to keep many small species of tetras and other types of small fish. In a constant diet, it is better to add medium-sized or finely chopped live or frozen food.

Reproduction in a species tank with abundant plants is most effective. One female lays up to 50 very small eggs, which are scattered throughout the aquarium. The maturation period lasts four days, after which larvae appear, which feed on the yolk sac for the first three days, and then the fry successfully eat ciliates or brine shrimp larvae.

The development of young individuals occurs in the first three weeks at a very fast pace, after which it stops, and then they grow slowly. Pygmy catfish fry are strikingly different from adults.

Pygmy corridor.

Catfish habrosus (lat. Corydoras habrosus)

The size of this species reaches 3 cm. Habrosus catfish prefers bottom layers of soft and medium-soft slightly acidic water with a temperature of 20 to 26 ° C and a weekly change of up to 30%.

The difference between the female and the male lies in her larger size and greater width of the back.

Habrosus are peaceful and many calm fish with the same character and small size will approach them as neighbors.

Habrosus catfish are fed from the bottom, they prefer fresh or frozen food, it is allowed to feed them with dry food and spirulina tablets.

When breeding, the female lays up to 100 eggs in small bushy plants, Javanese moss and next to them. The larvae hatch after three days, the fry after two days begin to move freely around the aquarium and eat brine shrimp. After six weeks, young habrosus begin to acquire an adult color. The growth rate in the first two months is fast, and at this age their size reaches 1 cm, and then slows down. Sexual maturity occurs at 10-12 months.

Sparrow catfish (lat. Corydoras hastatus)

The size of this species does not exceed 3 cm. For a comfortable maintenance of sparrow catfish in an aquarium, soft clean water with a temperature of 20 to 26 ° C, with good aeration and filtration is required.

The female differs from the male in larger size. By their nature, they are peaceful and get along well with fish similar in temperament and size. In nutrition, they are not picky and use live, frozen and dry food, as well as various substitutes.

Before spawning, the difference between the male and the female is obvious: the tummy is more curved and full, the dorsal fin of the female is rounded, and that of the male is pointed. During spawning, the female lays up to 80 eggs on glass, the underside of plant leaves, or another suitable place. The maturation period of eggs lasts four days, after which larvae appear, which after two days begin to move independently around the aquarium and can successfully eat aquarium plankton (brine shrimp, etc.).

During the first month of life, the growth rate of the fry is fast (the size reaches up to 1 cm), and then decreases. By the age of one year, they reach the size of their parents and sexual maturity.

And quite a few videos about speckled catfish and rules for its content:

All the inhabitants of the aquarium are in constant relationship and perform a specific role. Aquarium catfish act as filter feeders - water purifiers from the waste products of other inhabitants of the reservoir. Species diversity order of catfish is generally striking (more than 1.5 thousand species). Among them, you can meet both small representatives no larger than 2 cm in size, and giant individuals reaching 5 m in length. These fish have no equal. They surprise with their unusual appearance and bizarre shape.

Since catfish aquarium fish are mostly predators and prefer a bottom lifestyle, you need to be clear about what conditions are optimal for them, how to properly equip an aquarium and who can act as their neighbors.

Ancistrus

The most common and popular group of catfish is the Ancistrus genus of the chain catfish family (Loricariidae), with about 30 species. Among aquarists, due to the unusual structure of the mouth, you can also find other names for this group - sucker catfish, sticky, cleaners.

Ancistrus aquarium catfish have a lot of positive qualities:

They act as "orderlies" of the aquarium;
. unpretentious in care and maintenance;
. have a mouth in the form of a sucker, which distinguishes them from other catfish-like fish;
. distinguished by unusual and outstanding behavior.

For representatives of the genus Ancistrus, the following environmental parameters are allowed:

The temperature indicator of water is 20-28 ° C;
. pH - 6.0-7.3;
. dH - up to 10°;

Ancistrus live an average of 7 years. The size of individuals is relatively small, in length they reach no more than 10 cm.

Aquarium sucker catfish are peaceful bottom dwellers, compatible with many fish. However, it is undesirable to settle them with aggressive cichlids - the enemies of ancistrus, which eat the fins of catfish.

For a pair of such catfish, an 80-liter aquarium is needed. Its bottom should be equipped with special shelters - grottoes, snags, caves or stumps. It is advisable to carry out aeration, filtration and replacement of water with fresh water four times a month.

Aquarium sucker catfish - phytophages. In other words, they eat plant foods. They free the walls of the aquarium and decorative elements from algae. Natural food must be supplemented with special foods, which are available in the form of large tablets that fall to the bottom, as well as vegetation (scalded spinach leaves, cabbage, lettuce, cucumber or pumpkin slices are suitable). Often they gnaw at the snags used to decorate the aquarium.

Reproduction can occur both independently in a common reservoir, and purposefully, in a separate aquarium, where a pair is placed - a female and a male. During spawning provide abundant feeding and frequent water changes to fresh ones. Long tubes or stumps must be installed in the aquarium, on which the female lays eggs. All care for future offspring is taken by the male. Five days after laying, larvae appear from the eggs, which after a while turn into fry. They have a need for food. You can use the same food as for adult fish, only in the form of a fine fraction.

Representatives: Ancistrus dolichopterus (common ancistrus), Ancistrus cirrhosus (dark ancistrus), Ancistrus leucostistus (star ancistrus).

Tarakatum

Often in the aquarium you can find catfish belonging to the genus Hoplosternum, the family Callichthyidae (armored catfish). A prominent representative of the genus are tarakatums (Hoplosternum thoracatum). Due to the bone platinum covering the body, they are not afraid predatory fish. Tarakatums are peaceful fish, they normally relate to neighbors with similar living conditions, namely:

Temperature regime - within 22-28 ° C;
. pH - from 5.8 to 7.5;
. dH - up to 25°.

Tarakatum aquarium catfish are long-lived, live for more than 10 years. A couple of specimens need a closed aquarium with a volume of at least 100 liters. Better adapt to reservoirs inhabited by aquatic vegetation, equipped with snags, caves, grottoes. The length of an adult fish is from 18 cm.

In relation to food, they are unpretentious. They eat any food, preference is given to living species. They can collect food both from the bottom of the reservoir and from the surface of the water.

Tarakatums are aquarium catfish, the reproduction of which provides for the presence of a male and a female. Pairs of individuals are selected independently. They are placed in a special spawning aquarium equipped with artificial floating plants, under which the male builds a nest. The female lays eggs in it (500-1200 eggs). The functions of protection and care for the offspring are performed by the male. He also closes the nest after laying. After 7 days, larvae appear from the eggs. In search of food, they fall to the bottom. At this time, they can be fed only a small fraction of any live food. For normal growth and development of fry, it is necessary to change up to half the volume of water in the aquarium daily.

Representatives: Hoplosternum littorale (beige hoplosternum), Hoplosternum thoracatum (tarakatum), Hoplosternum magdaienae (magdalena hoplosternum), Dianema longibarbis (long-whiskered dianema), Dianema urostriata (striped-tailed dianema).

corridors

Representatives of the armored catfish family, the genus Corydoras - aquarium catfish, whose species can often be found in an artificial reservoir, have a beautiful color and calm character. The brightest representative is the speckled corridor (Corydoras paleatus).

For these fish you will need:

Optimum water temperature - 24-25 ° C;
. pH - from 6.0 to 7.0;
. dH - up to 4°.

The sizes of catfish are relatively small (up to 7 cm in length). Life expectancy is on average 8 to 10 years. Some specimens live up to 15 years.

Prefer aquariums with sandy soil. The bottom should be equipped with stones, snags and caves for fish to rest.

Speckled aquarium catfish live in flocks. Due to their calm, peaceful disposition, they are compatible with almost any type of fish (except for labeo, modest botia, ancistrus). In food, catfish are not picky, they consume any food. The main thing is to use them in the form of tablets falling to the bottom of the aquarium, since corridors cannot capture food from the surface.

For the treatment of individuals of the genus Corydoras can not be used saline solutions due to their intolerance by the body of fish.

Reproduction of corridors is paired. The male and female are placed in a spawning aquarium, the temperature of the water in which is lowered to 18 ° C. After laying, the female is returned back. The male is left to care for the offspring. The larvae appear in about 5-6 days. The fry feed on small plankton and crushed live food.

Representatives: Corydoras elegans (elegant catfish), Corydoras paleatus (speckled catfish), Corydoras leopardus (leopard catfish), Corydoras schultzei (golden catfish), Corydoras hastatus (pygmy catfish).

Synodontis

Incredibly amazing fish are fringed catfish (family Mochocidae), namely representatives of the genus Synodontis. The shifting catfish (Synodontis nigriventris) is especially impressive. Scientists all over the world still cannot understand such a phenomenon as a peculiar movement of a fish in an aquarium upside down, as a result of which it got its name. AT normal position catfish is found only during the collection of food from the bottom.

The size of an adult fish is from 6 to 9.5 cm in length. Usually females larger than males. Aquarium catfish live up to 10 years on average. They prefer a flocking lifestyle with maximum activity at night.

The aquarium needs to be equipped with various bottom decorative elements (grots, hollow tubes, driftwood, pots without a bottom). It is desirable that aquatic vegetation be present in it, including floating on the surface. Gravel or sand is suitable as soil. The optimal water parameters for synodontis are as follows:

Temperature - 24-26 ° C;
. pH - from 6.5 to 7.5;
. dH - up to 15°.

Neighbors of individuals of the genus Synodontis can be any fish corresponding to them in temperament and size. Small, slow moving species will not get along with them.

Synodontis - aquarium catfish (the photo with the names is presented below) require a fairly large space for normal life, an average of 50 liters of water per individual.

You can feed catfish with any food (vegetable, live, combined). The main thing is not to overeat and not to feed once a week at all, arranging fasting days for the fish. Otherwise, it can lead to metabolic disorders and fat deposition. Such an instance cannot be used for reproduction.

To obtain offspring, special hormonal therapy will be required. The female lays eggs, which are carried by a stream of water throughout the aquarium. After 172 hours, fry appear from the eggs. They negatively perceive light rays, so it is desirable to darken the container during their growth. For primary nutrition, use live dust.

Synodontis - aquarium catfish of their varieties: Synodontis alberti (feathery catfish), Synodontis brichardi (black-striped catfish), Synodontis nigriventris (shift catfish), Synodontis angelicus (star catfish), Synodontis decorus (flag catfish).

Brocade catfish, or brocade pterygoplicht

Among chain catfish, the so-called brocade catfish (Pterygoplichthys gibbiceps) deserves attention. It helps keep the aquarium clean by polishing and cleaning the walls with its suction cup mouth.

The optimal water parameters for this species are as follows:

Temperature - 22-30 °C;
. pH - from 6.5 to 8.2;
. dH - up to 20°.

Needs constant filtration, aeration and replacement of half the volume of water with fresh water. Due to its impressive size (up to 60 cm in length), it can only live in large aquariums (200 liters per individual). Be sure to have shelters at the bottom of the reservoir (snags of deciduous origin).

It gets along well with other inhabitants of the aquarium, does not touch anyone. The maximum activity is observed at night. During the day, the fish hides in a shelter. They live like all catfish for a long time (up to 10 years).

Pterygoplicht brocade - aquarium catfish (photo), eating both vegetable and live food (in a percentage of 60/40).

Brocade catfish are bred in special commercial ponds when not caught. The female lays her eggs in a previously dug hole in the ground. The male guards the clutch. Fry should be fed initially crushed live food.

Flathead, or fractocephalus

There are aquarium catfish, the species of which are in an artificially created aquatic environment are rare. These include the flathead (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus), from the genus Phractocephalus, of the flathead catfish family (Pimelodidae). AT natural environment you can meet individuals reaching a length of 1.2 m. In aquariums it usually grows up to 90-100 cm. It needs a large aquarium (300 l).

Such a catfish has a very attractive color (the belly and back are painted in dark colors, the sides are light). Compatible with large ornamental fish. Leads mostly bottom night image life. Needs shelter. According to food preferences, it is omnivorous and very voracious.

The flathead lives in one of the unique underwater museums - the Alushta Aquarium.

Glass catfish, or ghost catfish

There are aquarium catfish, the species of which do not leave indifferent any aquarist. These include glass catfish (Kryptopterus bicirrhis) - a representative of the genus Kryptopterus of the Eurasian catfish family (Siluridae).

Leads a flock of life, so it is better to immediately purchase 6-8 pieces. For one flock, you will need a 100-liter aquarium, equipped as close as possible to the natural environment (a large amount of vegetation, including floating, shaded areas, free space, water flow). This type of fish is very sensitive to water quality, so do not forget about its regular filtration, aeration and replacement.

These catfish aquarium fish (photo above) are extremely timid; peaceful inhabitants of the same size will suit them as neighbors.

Prefer live food, feed in the middle layers of the aquarium. During the day, they do not show much activity, only during feeding. They do not breed in captivity.

Clarias

One more pretty large group aquarium inhabitants are Clarias (genus Clarias) from the family of Clariidae catfish (Clariidae). These are aquarium catfish, the majority of whose species lead a predatory lifestyle. In their neighborhood, they tolerate only large fish or prefer to live alone in species tanks that match their size.

The body length of adults, depending on the species, ranges from 13 to 35 cm. When transplanting catfish, care should be taken due to the presence of thorns on the pectoral fins. Fish injections are very painful, and the mucus that gets into the wound can cause allergies and even tumors.

The most notable is the Angolan clarias (Clarias angolensis). In size, the largest of the genus Clarias (35 cm in length). For maintenance, an aquarium with a volume of 150 liters is required, preferably a closed one. From aquatic vegetation, only algae with a strong root system are allowed. Water must have the following parameters:

Temperature - 23-28 °C;
. pH - from 7.0 to 9.0;
. dH - up to 40°.

Angolan clarias - aquarium catfish (photos with names are presented below). They lead a predatory lifestyle small fish. In addition, they have bad habit- drive other inhabitants of the reservoir. You can give mixed food.

For breeding, the female and male are planted in another aquarium. Stones, hollow tubes are necessarily placed at the bottom, shelters are equipped. After laying, the male is removed from the spawning pond. After three days, larvae appear, which on the sixth day turn into fry and begin to feed. Initial feed - crushed combined.

Other representatives: Clarias anguillaris (charmouth), Clarias batrachus (eel-like clarias), Clarias dumerillii (dumerilla), Clarias platycephalus (flat-headed clarias).

Key points to consider when keeping catfish

In order for catfish aquarium fish to live and multiply for a long time, the following basic rules for their maintenance must be taken into account.

Use special filtration and aeration equipment to create a flow of water in the aquarium.
. Ensure proper water quality by replacing ½ of the amount with new water weekly.
. Install decorative elements at the bottom - snags, hollow pipes, pots without a bottom, equipment for grottoes and caves.
. Use food in tablet form as most catfish species are bottom feeders.
. Do not transfer fry to community aquarium until they grow to a larger size.
. Do not forget to decorate an artificial pond with aquatic vegetation, including floating ones.

How to choose and buy aquarium catfish

When buying catfish in an aquarium, you need to consider the following parameters:

Behavior - for a common aquarium, it is advisable to choose peaceful species with a calm disposition, it is better to settle aggressive catfish separately;
. food preferences - predatory catfish should not be chosen for a reservoir where small harmless fish live;
. dimensions - do not forget the fact that some species in the mature state reach up to 150 cm in length;
. fish health - you can’t put fish into a common aquarium without first keeping it in quarantine;
. transportation home - special plastic containers are suitable, since catfish have pincers on the fins that can pierce the oxygen bags used for other fish.

Conclusion

Catfish are representatives of the fauna of almost every aquarium. Spending most of their life at the bottom, they significantly enliven the near-bottom zone. There is no more diverse species of fish in the store than aquarium catfish. The price for them varies depending on the type, size and color and starts from 200 rubles per individual. Aquarium catfish are truly amazing, beautiful and unusual fish. It is a pleasure to watch them, especially at night, when they are most active. Some species are easy to breed in captivity, while others, on the contrary, breed only in a natural ecosystem. In general, whatever you say, this is a wonderful fish - catfish! An excellent orderly and a true decoration of the aquarium.

Catfish in the aquarium - not only beautiful inhabitants underwater world. They play the role of a natural filter. In other words, they eat the mucus that other inhabitants of the aquarium secrete. There are several types of these fish that get along well with other types of fish.

Types of aquarium catfish with photos and names

Each type of aquarium catfish is interesting in its own way. Choose those fish that are interesting to watch specifically for you. What are aquarium catfish photos with names can be seen below.

Catfish is small in size, which has an elongated body. The color of the fish is jet black. Scattered on the body are white dots. Outwardly, the fish resembles a starry sky in dark night. The mouth of the catfish is elongated, in the form of a sucker. This allows him to easily absorb food, removing it from rocks and corals. He eats mucus and algae.

The fish has an interesting feature: a white edging along the fins. With age, this line disappears. The female catfish of this species grows up to 8 cm. The catfish is not whimsical in care, so it is perfect for those who are just starting to explore the underwater world.

The size of the aquarium for several individuals should be more than 60 cm. Ideally, if it has driftwood, caves and aquarium plants. The bottom line is that the fish hides from bright light and begins its activity only in the dark.

Catfish collect food debris from stones, snags, and the aquarium bottom, and some types of algae are scraped off. Thus, they receive their dose of nutrients. Catfish males are not friendly with each other, there are fights for territory. But it doesn't come down to murder. Watching this war for leadership is fascinating.

As additional food, you can add dandelion leaves scalded with boiling water to the aquarium, food in tablets for those fish that live at the bottom. Reproduction of fish occurs when the female reaches a size of 8-9 cm.

It can spawn in a separate container or in the same aquarium. But, make sure that the kids are not eaten by other fish. It is best to plant the female in a separate container equal to the aquarium and lower the water temperature. Thus, spawning will be faster. The larger the aquarium, the better the catfish feel. They are indifferent to other types of fish, but there will be no peace for their breed. It is recommended to keep 1 male per 200 liters of water in the aquarium.

In a large aquarium for catfish, there will be enough plant food and space. The fry feed on live dust and small plant food already on the 4th day of life. It is advisable to place a snag in the aquarium, catfish will gnaw it. Ancistrus stellate, subject to the rules of care, lives for several years.

They are called aquarium orderlies. They, like the previous species of fish, eat waste from other types of fish. The color can be yellow, red, white, black. They have practically no scales, but dorsal fins are developed.

Catfish "Sticky" has a mouth resembling a sucker, a body similar to a drop and a large head. These fish are fun to watch. They can stick their lips to glass, aquarium decorations, wood, and even large algae.

The fish feed mainly on the waste food of other fish, small algae. Gradually studying the soil of the aquarium, they eat all the remnants of food that they can find. This is interesting, because you will clean the aquarium much less often. If you have such catfish, cleaning can be done 1 time in 2 weeks. At the same time, the catfish receives all the nutrients that it needs.

Caring for catfish of this species is almost effortless. Regular feeding, the right water temperature and enough free space are all that a fish needs to live.

In encyclopedias, this fish is called "pterygoplicht". To make it easier to pronounce vernacular name became a simple "brocade catfish". This fish grows slowly, lives for a long time up to 15 years. But, you may be in for a surprise over time in the form of a 45 cm fish that does not fit in a regular aquarium.

Catfish is suitable for growing at home. But, the aquarium for him should be at least 400 liters. You can put a male and a female here. Catfish eat algae and food. In addition, they pick up leftover food for other fish. They are friendly to neighbors, but males do not like each other's proximity, there may be skirmishes.

If the males grew up together, they do not perceive each other as “strangers”. Up to 100 species of these fish are distinguished by color. No genetic differences have yet been found. Keep a close eye on angelfish and other slow fish. At night, catfish can take them for a tree and eat all the scales from the sides.

Brocade catfish is great for beginner fish lovers. But, it is worth remembering that the fish is big. A small aquarium will turn into a grave for such a catfish. As described above, the size of the container should be about 400 liters. For apartment aquariums, such sizes are rare.

There is a myth that goldfish and catfish can be kept in the same aquarium. This is not so, their conditions of detention are radically different. The water temperature in the aquarium where the catfish lives should be about 235 degrees. It is worth installing an external filter. Despite the fact that the catfish is a nurse for the aquarium, it pollutes the water.

Another interesting inhabitant of the aquarium. These catfish can jump. To prevent the catfish from jumping out of the aquarium and not dying, the container is covered with a lid. The shade of such a fish is brown or gray. On the chest, the catfish has fins. They distinguish males from females. In male catfish, the fins are thickened and have the shape of a triangle.

The average temperature in the aquarium should be around 21 degrees Celsius. Catfish can withstand brackish, hard and not very clean water. But, neglecting the care of a pet is not worth it. The size of one fish can reach 16 cm. But, they rarely grow so large. The average size of a catfish of this species is 13 cm. Tarakatums live in flocks. In nature, their groups can be thousands. It makes no sense to keep such a herd in an aquarium, so the optimal size of a flock is 6 individuals. Of these, only 1 fish should be male. Until spawning occurs, these catfish are friendly. At the time of breeding, the strongest male can kill the rest of the males.

The size of the aquarium for such catfish is from 120 liters. It is better to choose a classic aquarium, where there is a large bottom plane. Catfish mainly live at the bottom and in a figured aquarium, they will not be very comfortable. Catfish can live with almost any fish living conditions that coincide with the rules of life for catfish.

eat catfish organic waste plants and live food in the form of bloodworms, coretra and worms. Due to the abundant food in the aquarium, the water quickly becomes polluted. It should be changed by 50% every week. In this case, an external filter should work. If it is internal, the catfish will develop poorly. fast current they cannot tolerate water.

This type of fish in the aquarium is almost invisible. They do not like bright light and die quickly under the rays of the sun or a table lamp. In nature, they live in reservoirs, which during the rainy season spill onto the fields. Catfish lay their eggs in this mud. There are several types of such catfish, the size of the largest individuals reaches 80 cm.

Small fish live in apartment aquariums, the most big size individuals 16 cm. The fish lives for a long time, if the care is correct, it can live up to 10 years. It is interesting to observe how, under different rays of light, the catfish changes its hue from blue to pale gold.

The water temperature in the aquarium should be no more than 27 degrees Celsius. Water is only soft. The aquarium should have enough oxygen and constantly clean water. Catfish in the tank float with the flow of the filter. In nature, they follow the current. Their habitat is the middle waters of the reservoir.

The size of the aquarium where different fish live should be from 80 liters of water. Fluid is changed by 25% every week. In this case, it is more likely that your fish will live a long time. They eat glass catfish live food, they can also be planted on dry supplements. But, the last type of feed is introduced gradually.

This type of fish looks great. They may become your first favorites.

A shark in an aquarium is unusual and such a fish will not be left without attention. Pangasius closely resembles a shark and can grow up to 30 cm in length. Such a catfish in an aquarium behaves like the owner of a reservoir. Eats meat and vegetable food. You can give cucumbers, zucchini, cut into small pieces of beef, squid and live small fish.

You can also feed catfish with special food for pangasius. But, catfish is voracious, and food is expensive. Give food to fish 2-3 times a day in small portions. It is important that lunch is eaten immediately. Leftover catfish food can harm other inhabitants of the aquarium.

Do not get carried away feeding this pet. From a large number food, he will become fat. The situation is saved by a light diet and fasting days once a week. There are dozens of species of shark catfish. Some of them grow up to 2.5 meters and are eaten.

Aquarium catfish of this species grows up to only 30 cm. It is convenient for him to live in an aquarium from 60 cm. Make sure that it has a lid. The shark catfish is a coward and jumps out when it is frightened of something. The aquarium should have smooth stones, driftwood and other decorative things, the catfish hides behind them when it feels fear.

Fine gravel or sand is poured at the bottom of the aquarium. Make sure that sharp objects and stones do not get here. They can cause the death of a fish, cut its belly. Plants in the aquarium choose such that their roots sit well in the ground. You can plant plants in pots, so the fish will not dig them up.

The temperature of the water in the tank should be no more than 27 degrees Celsius. The necessary current inside the aquarium is created by a pump. The minimum volume of the aquarium is 60 liters, but for the natural life of fish, a volume of 350 liters is needed. Shark catfish likes to live in a flock, but in modern apartments it is almost impossible.

An aquarium for a couple of these fish should be 1200 liters. Not all property owners can afford such a giant. decorative shark love new water, every week it needs to be changed by at least 30%. An aeration and water filtration system must be connected to the aquarium.

In general, shark catfish are quite interesting fish. In aquariums, she looks intriguing, but keeping her in ordinary apartment it will be hard.

This fish got its name for the ridiculous ability to turn over to the top of the belly with every fright, and pretend to be dead. By appearance these catfish are very beautiful. In the store you most often will not see them, although they are on sale. From a large stream of people, fish hide in their shelters.

If the aquarium has big fish catfish can be lost among them. Changelings get along well with other types of fish. But, between males there can be a war for leadership. The fish grows up to 20 cm in length. It can live with other types of aquarium inhabitants that are aggressive and defend their territory.

Catfish like to swim belly up and relax like that. For this occupation, they can be found in the aquarium. The active life of fish takes place at night. It is advisable to feed them before turning off the lights in the apartment. It is not advisable to keep small fish near this nose, he will eat them. At the same moment with large species fish, catfish get along well.

This type of aquarium inhabitants can be called orderlies. They have the ability to get food from places where ordinary fish cannot reach. Thus, help you take care of the aquarium. Aquarium water should be clean and well oxygenated.

Inspect all decorations and plants, there should be no sharp catches and planes. These catfish do not have scales. They can get hurt and die. The best indicator of conditions in an aquarium are shifter tricks. If everything suits them, they swim upside down and are active at night.

It is worth providing hard-to-reach and dark places in the aquarium. This is where the fish will hide in the daytime. If catfish have nowhere to hide, they are stressed and get sick more often. When choosing plants for an aquarium, you should make sure that they are large and tough. Fish will spoil or eat small and tender plants. In general, the Changeling catfish fits perfectly into the aquarium and looks beautiful there.