Centromochlus Woodcat

Centromochlus perugiae is a tiny, intricately patterned auchenipterid from the Peruvian and Brazilian Amazon, sharing the genus name with several other small driftwood catfish. Its brown-and-cream mottled markings and small, flattened build make it exceptionally cryptic — in a well-decorated aquarium with driftwood and bark it can be almost impossible to locate during daylight hours. The species has been occasionally confused with Tatia perugiae in the trade.

Like other auchenipterids, Centromochlus perugiae practises internal fertilisation. Males have a modified anal fin used to transfer sperm during mating. In the aquarium, the species rarely spawns without specific conditioning and soft water parameters, but it is otherwise hardy and undemanding. It eats most small invertebrate foods and adapts well to frozen alternatives.

This species is best kept in a tank with multiple tight-fitting hides and subdued lighting. It is entirely peaceful with tankmates too large to swallow and coexists well with small tetras, pencilfish, and corydoras. Its secretive lifestyle means it is more often heard than seen — the sounds of nocturnal rummaging in the substrate are usually the main indicator of its presence.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 5.8–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 2–12). Tank: 80 L minimum; dense driftwood and bark hides; sand substrate; dim or moonlight-only evening illumination. Feeding: Frozen bloodworm, daphnia, brine shrimp, small sinking pellets; nocturnal feeder. Breeding: Internal fertilisation; rarely achieved in captivity; soft acidic water and live food conditioning required. Compatibility: Peaceful; compatible with small tetras, pencilfish, and corydoras.