Armored Catfish

Loricaria cataphracta is a large, heavily armoured loricariid from the coastal rivers of Brazil and Guyana. Its body is encased in bony scutes that give it a prehistoric appearance, and its elongated whip-like tail adds additional drama. It is a peaceful but sizeable catfish requiring a very large aquarium and is best suited to experienced keepers with the space to accommodate it properly.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 2–15). Tank: 200 L minimum; fine sand or smooth substrate; large pieces of driftwood for shelter. Feeding: Sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, and occasional meaty frozen foods. Behaviour: Peaceful but large; mostly solitary and nocturnal; males guard egg clutches. Compatibility: Peaceful with large cichlids and robust community fish; avoid fin-nippers.