Four Popular Types of Catfish
While there are many South American catfish, these peculiar species are worth a closer look.
By
Neale Monks |
South America is a hotspot of catfish diversity. There are at least 700 species within the family Loricariidae (plecos) alone. Ecological diversity is high, too. There are South American catfish in streams, rivers, lakes and swamps. Quite a few live in estuaries, and a few inhabit the sea. There are even species that favor caves and waterlogged leaf litter. Most are opportunists, but some are top predators, while others consume wood, algae, fruit — even blood.
Fortunately for ambitious aquarists, South American catfish can do well in captivity. Optimal catfish conditions are soft, slightly acidic water (2 to 12 degrees dH and pH from 6 to 7.5) at a temperature from 72 to 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Feeding isn’t much of a problem either — just provide a good mix of fresh, frozen and pellet foods.
Want to read the full story? Pick up the June 2012 issue of Aquarium Fish International today.
Give us your opinion on
Four Popular Types of Catfish