Flagtail catfish Care Guide

Care Process

The Flagtail Catfish is a moderately hardy fish, making it a good option for aquarists with some experience. It is an uncommon species and can grow quite large, reaching lengths of 15 to 30 cm. These social fish thrive in groups, and it is recommended to keep them in schools of at least 6 individuals. Despite being mostly peaceful, they can exhibit mild territorial behavior.

Tank Setup

Adequate tank space is crucial, and you should allocate at least 40 liters per fish. The Flagtail Catfish inhabits various levels of the tank, including the surface, mid-tank, and bottom, so providing an environment with ample swimming space and hiding spots is beneficial.

The ideal water temperature for the Flagtail Catfish is between 25°C and 30°C. The pH level should be maintained between 6.0 and 7.5. Regular water changes and a good filtration system will help maintain water quality, which contributes positively to their health and color.

Feeding

The Flagtail Catfish is not a picky eater and enjoys a well-rounded diet. They can be fed with flakes, pellets, and algae wafers as staple food sources. Supplementing their diet with bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, frozen shrimp, vegetable matter, and color-enhancing foods will ensure they receive varied nutrition. They also enjoy daphnia, microworms, feeder fish, freeze-dried foods, and stick-on tablets.

Behavior and Compatibility

Flagtail Catfish are mostly peaceful, making them compatible with other similarly sized fish in a community tank. They display playful behavior but can become semi-aggressive. While generally social, they may exhibit shy tendencies in some instances.

During breeding, some slight aggression may be noted, thus ensuring sufficient space and proper tank mates will help in managing any behavioral changes.

Maintenance

The maintenance level for Flagtail Catfish is low, which, combined with moderate affordability, makes them a feasible option for hobbyists. Regular maintenance includes monitoring water parameters, conducting regular water changes, and ensuring proper feeding practices.