Named for their prominent barbels, which resemble a cat's whiskers, catfish range in size and behavior from the three largest species alive, the Mekong giant catfish from Southeast Asia, the wels catfish of Eurasia, and the piraíba of South America, to detritivores (species that eat dead material on the bottom), and even to a tiny parasitic species commonly called the candiru, Vandellia cirrhosa. Many catfish are nocturnal,[3][4] but others (many Auchenipteridae) are crepuscular or diurnal (most Loricariidae or Callichthyidae, for example). Despite their name, not all catfish have prominent barbels or "whiskers". Catfish (or catfishes; order Siluriformes /sɪˈljʊərɪfɔːrmiːz/ or Nematognathi) are a diverse group of ray-finned fish. Catfish are of considerable commercial importance; many of the larger species are farmed or fished for food. Many of the smaller species, particularly the genus Corydoras, are important in the aquarium hobby. Neither the armour-plated types nor the naked types have scales. Members of the Siluriformes order are defined by features of the skull and swimbladder. There are many different types of aquarium catfish out there. It’s no wonder why they’re found in so many tanks around the world. In fact, they’re one of the most popular kinds of freshwater fish for aquarists to get!
There are many unique looks, varying behavior, and benefits that these creatures can bring to your tank.
1. The name “Cory Catfish” is used as a catch-all term to describe these unique fish. However, each species is unique and comes with its own set of personality and appearance quirks!. 1. Cory Catfish
Also referred to as Corydoras, Cory Catfish make up a genus that includes more than 165 distinct species.They thrive in warmer waters between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The pH balance of the water should between 6.0 and 8.0 depending on the species. This is especially true if you plan on keeping groups or creating a multi-species community tank.
These catfish need a lush environment filled with plants and decor. Though, a 20 to 30-gallon tank is preferred. A 10-gallon tank is needed for smaller Cory Catfish species.
2 . While they stick to the bottom of the water column like other catfish, these creatures are playful by nature and love to spend time exploring their environment. Striped Raphael Catfish
The Striped Raphael Catfish is a lively species that’s been known to put on a show.
Pair that with their rayed fins and you have the makings of a beautiful fish.
Don’t let their docile nature fool you! These fish can do a lot of damage with their sharp fins. Despite their muted coloration, Striped Raphael Catfish stand out quite a bit. They are notorious for getting stuck in nets. Though, that usually only occurs when they are kept in large tanks. Waters should be kept between 75 and 80 degrees with a pH balance of roughly 6.5 to 7.5. Thanks to their bold horizontal stripes, they can’t be missed in your tank. Most will stay in the neighborhood of 6 inches long.
A sizable 50-gallon tank is needed to stave off stress and disease. If they’re consumed by larger fish, they can even get lodged in the predator’s throat!
When mature, Striped Raphael Catfish can reach lengths up to 9.4 inches.
Lovingly referred to as “dwarf suckers” or “otos,” the Otocinclus Catfish is a popular fish in the aquarium community.They will spend a lot of time hiding near plants and decor when not eating. When they’re not doing that, they will be searching for something to snack on in the substrate.
They prefer warmer waters with a relatively neutral pH balance. Thanks to their small size, a group of these catfish can do well in a 10-gallon tank.
Peaceful by nature, the Otocinclus Catfish can be a bit timid. These aquarium catfish spend most of their day scavenging for food. They’re some of the best algae eaters you can get. You can usually see them clinging to the side of the tank eating algae or feasting on plant detritus .
The Bristlenose Pleco is another catfish species that will work hard to keep algae levels under control. These fish have a healthy appetite for all types of aquarium algae and will spend most of their time cleaning driftwood, rocks, and glass surfaces.They do best in waters that are between 60 and 80 degrees. Growing from their mouths are several barbels. They grow in large numbers, even sprouting from the top of their head!
Bristlenose Plecos get about 3 to 5 inches long. A 25-gallon tank is recommended.
The fish are very hardy and can adapt well to many environments. Perhaps the most identifying trait of the fish, these barbels are much more pronounced than they are on other catfish species. While not the biggest aquarium catfish around, they still need plenty of room to swim around.
Reaching lengths of only 3 inches, the Bumblebee Catfish is perfect for small to medium-sized tanks .
As long as the temperatures are between 70 and 77 degrees and the water is neutral, you shouldn’t encounter any problems!
Like most types of aquarium catfish, this species prefers environments rich with plants and decor. Aptly named for the vivid stripes that run along their body, the Bumblebee Catfish is a beautiful fish species. These are hardy fish that do well in most standard aquarium setups. They love hiding out between driftwoods, rocks, and vegetation. Others have more muted tones of tan and brown, but that doesn’t take away from their good looks.
For the most part, taking care of Bumblee Catfish isn’t a challenge. Many specimens have alternating body colors of bright yellow and black.
Driftwood is a must for these catfish. Clown Pleco
Helming from Venezuela and Colombia, the Clown Catfish is a small species that rarely get larger than 4 inches in size. They have that traditional catfish profile. They chow down on the wood and feed off of any algae that are present. The base of the fish is dark black.
This includes a large head, downturned mouth, and expansive dorsal fin.
What’s unique about the Clown Catfish is its coloration.
Hailing from India and Bangladesh, these catfish are found in slow-moving streams. Thus, all you need is a small 10-gallon tank to keep them healthy.
Another cool thing about Glass Catfish is that they’re not bottom dwellers like other catfish species. They aren’t too difficult to care for. However, bigger is always better with this fish.
These are schooling catfish that do best in groups of at least five. When kept in larger groups, they will feel more confident and safe. They have no problem swimming throughout the middle of the water column.
These aquarium catfish can live up to eight years. Water should be between 75 and 80 degrees with a pH of 6.5. Though they do require some strict water parameters.
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