Asian Banjo Catfish (Acrochordonichthys rugosus)

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Asian Banjo Catfish

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Asian Banjo Catfish

Acrochordonichthys rugosus

76 Litres (20 US G.)

10-11 cm (3.9-4.3")

sg

Freshwater

pH

5.0 - 7.0

18 -24 °C (64.4-75.2°F)

0-12 °d

1:1 M:F

Carnivore
Live Foods
Other (See article)

8-12 years

Family

Akysidae



Additional names

Asian Banjo Catfish

Additional scientific names

Acrochordonichthys buettikoferi, Acrochordonichthys platycephalus, Acrochordonichthys varius, Acrochordonichthys zonatus, Pimelodus rugosus, Pimelodus zonatus


Origin[edit]

Found in Java, Indonesia.


Sexing[edit]

This fish is not easy to visually sex, mature females tend to be more rounder in the belly than males. Males have a more slender genital papilla immediately in front of anus.


Tank compatibility[edit]

This fish is best kept in species tanks or with fast-swimming top dwellers too large to be eaten. Bottom dwellers may also out compete it to food. It's not overly aggressive but will take fish it thinks it can eat. It can also be housed with others of its own species. Be wary what fish you choose, see the species note below.


Diet[edit]

Requires a meaty diet of foods such as bloodworm, daphnia, small earthworms as well as sinking catfish pellets and wafers.


Feeding regime[edit]

Feed once or twice a day.


Environment specifics[edit]

Requires a large well-filtered tank with plenty of hiding places in rocks and bogwood to make this fish feel secure. In the wild it's found in fast-flowing streams amongst rocks and leaf litter.


Behaviour[edit]

A fairly inactive bottom-dwelling ambush predator. Is more active at night.


Identification[edit]

An unusual "flat"-looking catfish with a broad head and mouth and small eyes. It is mottled brown in colour, proving excellent camouflage in leaf litter.

Species Note[edit]

This fish is capable of releasing a toxic mucus from the base of its tail if it feels threatened. This will kill any other tank mates, especially in a smaller tank where it's more likely to feel threatened by tank mates.

Pictures[edit]

External links[edit]