Broadband Stinging Catfish

Megalonema platanum is native to the Río de la Plata basin encompassing Argentina, Uruguay, and southern Brazil. Unlike most pimelodids, it is adapted to cooler, subtropical conditions and requires lower temperatures than tropical species, making it incompatible with most warm-water community setups.

Its broad, flattened head and robust, thickset body are typical of fish from fast-flowing, turbulent river environments. The silvery, largely unmarked body and prominent pectoral-fin spines are distinguishing features. These spines can deliver a painful wound and care should be taken during any tank maintenance.

Megalonema platanum is a genuine rarity in the hobby and is primarily of interest to specialist collectors of South American catfish. It requires a large, well-oxygenated aquarium with strong filtration and cool temperatures.

Water: 18–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderate hardness; high oxygen levels, strong circulation. Tank: Minimum 600L; cool-water setup, robust filtration, open swimming lanes. Feeding: Carnivore; large sinking pellets, prawns, fish fillets; hearty feeder. Breeding: No captive breeding documented. Compatibility: Aggressive; keep with large robust cool-water South American species only.