Duckbill Banjo Catfish

Amaralia hypsiura is a less commonly encountered aspredinid that differs from Bunocephalus species in its somewhat elevated lateral profile and a more strongly tapering posterior body region. Found in Amazon tributaries of Brazil, it inhabits similar sandy and silty shallow habitats as other banjo catfish. The species name refers to its high-backed (hypsi = high, ura = tail) body form.

In the aquarium, Amaralia hypsiura behaves like other aspredinids — burying in sand during the day and foraging at night. Its slightly different body shape makes it immediately recognisable alongside Bunocephalus species in a multi-species biotope setup. It is marginally less tolerant of poor water quality than the hardier B. coracoideus and benefits from consistent water changes.

This species is peaceful and completely harmless to tankmates. It requires the same fine sand substrate as other banjo catfish and should be fed sinking foods at night. Its relative scarcity in the trade makes it a sought-after addition to any collection of South American armored and oddball catfish.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 5.5–7.2, soft water preferred (GH 1–12). Tank: 80 L minimum; fine sand substrate at least 5 cm deep; leaf litter; dim conditions. Feeding: Sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, daphnia, small worms; nocturnal target feeding on substrate. Breeding: Not reported in captivity; presumed similar to Bunocephalus. Compatibility: Peaceful; compatible with all similarly sized peaceful community fish.