Porthole Catfish (Dianema longibarbis)

Dianema longibarbis, the Porthole Catfish, is an elegant callichthyid from the upper Amazon in Peru, displaying a streamlined silvery body with a row of dark spots along the lateral line and long, sensory barbels. More slender and peaceful than the related Port Hoplo, Dianema does well in community tanks alongside non-aggressive fish of similar size. Prefers planted aquariums with soft substrate and subdued lighting, and shows its best behaviour in groups.

Minimum 100 L planted tank with soft substrate and subdued lighting. pH 5.5–7.5, GH 2–10, KH 0–4, temperature 22–28°C. Feed sinking pellets, wafers, and frozen foods. Keep in groups of 4 or more — they are more active and less shy in numbers. Peaceful with all non-aggressive species. Gentle filtration preferred.