Spotted Talking Catfish

Agamyxis pectinifrons is one of the smaller doradids and one of the most distinctive, its entire body armoured with rows of spiny lateral scutes interspersed with pale spots and dark blotches on a brown-black background. Like all doradids it produces audible sounds by vibrating its pectoral-fin spines and its swim bladder.

In the aquarium this species is a hardy, peaceful community catfish that thrives in planted or heavily decorated tanks. It is primarily nocturnal and spends the day sheltering under driftwood or in caves. Its armoured exterior protects it from most community fish aggression.

The Spotted Talking Catfish is an excellent catfish for large community aquaria and is regularly available through South American fish importers at very accessible prices. It is long-lived and virtually trouble-free when maintained in suitable conditions.

Water: 22–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5, soft to moderately hard; clean, well-filtered. Tank: Minimum 150L; driftwood caves and plant cover; adequate hiding spots essential. Feeding: Omnivore; sinking tablets, frozen bloodworm, catfish pellets, algae wafers. Breeding: Not commonly achieved in aquaria; cave spawner in the wild. Compatibility: Peaceful; excellent with larger community fish; armoured against most aggression.