Blochii Pimelodus

Pimelodus blochii has one of the widest distributions of any Pimelodus species, occurring from Venezuela and the Guianas south through the Amazon and Orinoco. It is a medium-sized catfish, stockier and more robust than the Pictus, with a silver-grey body bearing irregular dark spots and long, elegant barbels.

In the aquarium, P. blochii is an active, opportunistic feeder that will eat almost any meaty food offered. It tends to be more assertive than the Pictus and may chase smaller tankmates, so careful community selection is required. It does best with similarly sized fish that can hold their own.

This species is hardy and tolerates a broad range of water conditions, making it suitable for intermediate keepers. It is not a strict schooling fish but is calmer when maintained in pairs or small groups.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 6.0–7.5, moderate hardness; adaptable but clean water preferred. Tank: Minimum 250L; sandy substrate, driftwood caves, subdued lighting. Feeding: Omnivore; sinking pellets, frozen meaty foods, earthworms; feeds readily day and night. Breeding: Not commonly achieved in aquaria. Compatibility: Semi-aggressive; keep with medium-large robust fish; avoid very small species.