Pictus Catfish

Pimelodus pictus is native to the Amazon and Orinoco river systems and has been a staple of the aquarium hobby for decades. Its striking polka-dot pattern on a bright silver background and impossibly long, elegantly trailing barbels make it one of the most photogenic catfish available at an accessible price.

In the wild, Pictus Catfish are active schooling fish that travel in loose groups along the substrate and in mid-water. In captivity they are best kept in groups of five or more, as solitary specimens become stressed and hide. They are very active during the day, making them more visible than many catfish.

The species is entirely peaceful toward fish too large to swallow but will readily consume neon tetras and other small schooling fish — a critical point for community tank planning. They thrive in warm, well-oxygenated water with moderate current.

Water: 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; good oxygenation and flow. Tank: Minimum 200L; keep in groups of 5+; sandy substrate and some driftwood cover. Feeding: Omnivore; sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, brine shrimp, Tubifex; feed after lights-out for shy specimens. Breeding: Rarely achieved in aquaria; egg-scatterer. Compatibility: Peaceful with medium-large fish; will eat very small tankmates such as nano tetras.