Barred sorubim Care Guide

Introduction

The Barred Sorubim is a striking aquatic entity celebrated for its adaptability and semi-aggressive nature. It is an uncommon species but appeals to many aquarium enthusiasts due to its moderate popularity and resilience. This care guide will cover its care requirements, feeding, tank setup, and other relevant aspects to ensure it thrives in a home aquarium.

Tank Setup

Setting up an appropriate environment for the Barred Sorubim is crucial for its well-being. The tank should maintain a temperature range between 25°C and 30°C and have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5 to match its natural habitat. Given its potential length of up to 100 cm, ensure your tank provides ample space with a minimum of 200 liters per fish. The Barred Sorubim is both a mid-tank and bottom dweller, so offer a combination of open swimming spaces and suitable substrates for their exploratory behavior.

Behavior and Compatibility

Barred Sorubim display semi-aggressive tendencies, with a moderately territorial behavior, particularly during breeding when their aggression can increase slightly. They are best kept in a small group or school, with a minimum recommended size of five individuals, to minimize stress and parallels with their natural schooling behavior. When selecting tank mates, choose species that can coexist with their semi-aggressive nature.

Feeding

The Barred Sorubim is omnivorous, and its diet should be varied to ensure nutritional balance. Offer a combination of flakes, pellets, and freeze-dried foods. Additionally, include protein-rich options like bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, frozen shrimp, daphnia, and feeder fish. Supplement their diet with vegetable matter and algae wafers to provide essential nutrients. Including color-enhancing food and stick-on tablets can also help maintain their vibrant appearance.

Maintenance

While the Barred Sorubim is relatively resilient, maintaining optimal water conditions is crucial for its health. Regularly test and monitor water parameters to keep them stable. Their moderate maintenance level requires routine tank cleaning, water changes, and filtration checks.

Breeding

Breeding Barred Sorubim in captivity can be challenging due to their moderate breeding aggression. It is vital to provide spaces within the tank that allow retreat and seclusion during the breeding season to decrease stress and potential conflicts. In conclusion, the Barred Sorubim's moderate care difficulty makes it suitable for aquarists with some experience. Providing a thoughtful tank setup, a balanced diet, and regular maintenance will ensure your Barred Sorubim thrives in its aquarium habitat.