Ribeiro's Driftwood Cat

Glanidium ribeiroi is a tiny, rarely imported auchenipterid catfish endemic to the Atlantic coastal drainage rivers of eastern Brazil. It belongs to a small genus of miniature driftwood catfish and is distinguished by its fine mottled brown-and-cream pattern, very small size, and preference for wedging itself into tight crevices among wood debris in moderate-current streams.

In the aquarium, this species is secretive and almost entirely nocturnal. It requires a densely furnished tank with numerous tight-fitting hides and benefits from a gentle flow that mimics the moderate-current coastal streams of its native habitat. Its small size — rarely exceeding 7 cm — makes it suitable for nano or small community setups.

Glanidium ribeiroi is best kept with small, peaceful species that pose no threat and are unlikely to be consumed — small tetras, pencilfish, and micropredator companions work well. Feed with small frozen bloodworm and daphnia after lights-out. Its rarity in the hobby and coastal Brazilian provenance make it highly attractive to specialist catfish and biotope enthusiasts.

Water: 20–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard (GH 2–12); gentle to moderate current. Tank: 60 L minimum; multiple tight caves; leaf litter; gentle flow; Brazilian Atlantic biotope theme ideal. Feeding: Frozen bloodworm, daphnia, micro-pellets; strictly nocturnal feeder. Breeding: Internal fertilisation; not reported in captivity for this species. Compatibility: Peaceful; compatible with small tetras, pencilfish, and other nano community species.