Westermann's Pimelodid

Bergiaria westermanni is native to the Paraná basin and is one of the larger pimelodids from subtropical South America. Its uniformly silver body and strongly forked, powerful caudal fin reflect its adaptation to large, fast-flowing river channels. It is rarely encountered in the hobby and details on captive care are limited.

In the aquarium it is expected to behave similarly to other large Paraná pimelodids, requiring cool, well-oxygenated water with strong filtration and regular water changes. It is an active predator and should be maintained in a very large tank with robust tankmates.

The extreme rarity of this species in captivity means that any specimens available are of significant interest to serious large-catfish collectors. Basic care follows the template of cool-water South American pimelodids.

Water: 18–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5, moderate hardness; high oxygen and flow. Tank: Minimum 700L; robust filtration, open swimming lanes. Feeding: Carnivore; large prawns, fish fillets, sinking pellets. Breeding: No captive breeding records. Compatibility: Aggressive; large robust South American species only.