Common & Latin Name: Large Pictus Catfish / Pim Pictus (Pimelodus pictus)
Care level: Easy
Max Size: 15cm
Temp: 22-27°C
PH: 6.0 - 7.2
Approximate purchase size: 6-7cm
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Community
The Pictus Catfish is a larger catfish from South America. With its distinctive long sensory barbels and highly active nature, it is one of the most popular catfish for communities with medium to large fish.
The Aquarium
Pimelodus pictus requires a larger aquarium as it grows to a pretty substantial size and needs to be in a shoal. We recommend aquariums of at least 4ft in length. The substrate should be fine sand to protect the delicate barbels from damage, with bog wood and smooth rocks creating places to explore and rest in. Plants are a welcome addition, but need to be robust and protected if planted in the substrate as these fish are quite fond of digging. Ideally the lighting should be diffused with floating plants or lots of tannins as it brings more activity from these nocturnal fish.
Behaviour
As mentioned before, this is a highly active fish that zooms around a lot. Larger groups tend to be more interesting, especially during feeding time when they can become quite frenzied. Like most catfish, they have an insatiable appetite with a mouth to match. For this reason, smaller fish like neon tetras should not be kept with the Pictus as they are likely to be picked off and eaten during the night, Timid species of fish may become spooked by Pimelodus pictus.
Feeding
Food can be offered in the form of catfish pellets, as well as fresh or frozen fish foods such as krill, mysis and brineshrimp.
If you have any questions about keeping the Pictus Catfish, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise you on best practice.
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Additional information
| Quantity | x1, x2, x4 |
|---|---|
| Brands | Shirley Aquatics |
