Wood's Talking Catfish

Rhynchodoras woodsi is one of the most morphologically distinctive doradids in the family, possessing a markedly elongated, narrow snout that gives it an almost needlefish-like frontal profile. This specialised rostrum is used to probe deep into leaf litter, crevices, and sandy substrate in search of invertebrate prey in its native upper Orinoco habitat in Venezuela and Colombia. It is a small-to-mid-sized species reaching around 18 cm.

In the aquarium, R. woodsi requires the same basic doradid husbandry — clean, warm, slightly acidic water, fine sand substrate, and hiding places among driftwood and leaves. Its elongated snout makes it particularly susceptible to injury from sharp or rough-edged decor, so smooth substrate and smooth-finished hides are essential. It is peaceful and nocturnal, rarely visible during daylight.

This species is very rarely available, appearing sporadically in specialist South American imports. Virtually nothing is published on its captive breeding. Its unusual morphology, rarity, and Orinoco blackwater origin make it a prize acquisition for the dedicated doradid collector.

Water: 22–28°C, pH 5.5–7.0, soft; blackwater tannin-stained conditions preferred. Tank: 200 L minimum; fine sand; smooth driftwood and leaf litter; avoid sharp decor. Feeding: Frozen bloodworm, small live invertebrates, small sinking wafers. Breeding: Not documented in captivity. Compatibility: Peaceful; suitable with small Orinoco blackwater species.