❤️ Care
Habitat and Tank Setup
In its natural environment, the gulper catfish thrives in soft, acidic freshwater conditions, typical of the Negro and Orinoco river basins. Replicating these conditions in an aquarium is key to their well-being. Water should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0, and temperatures should remain between 23°C and 28°C. Maintaining water quality is crucial, and frequent water changes are needed due to the fish’s carnivorous diet, which produces significant waste.
- Tank Size: Minimum 190 liters (50-gallon tank) for juveniles; larger tanks are required as they grow to around 25 to 30 cm (10-12 inches).
- Tank Decor: Provide submerged structures such as driftwood, rocks, and caves to mimic their natural habitat and offer hiding spots.
- Water Parameters: pH of 5.5 to 7.0; temperature range of 23°C to 28°C; clean, well-filtered water is essential.
Diet and Feeding
The gulper catfish is a strict carnivore that feeds primarily on live prey. In an aquarium setting, they are often given feeder fish, though a varied diet, including shrimp or worms, is recommended for their health. Caution must be taken when selecting tank mates, as anything that can fit in their large mouth will be eaten.
- Diet: Live foods such as feeder fish, shrimp, and worms.
- Feeding Frequency: Feed every few days with live prey or occasionally frozen foods.
- Tank Mates: Best kept alone or with similarly aggressive, larger fish that cannot be swallowed.
Water Quality
The gulper catfish is sensitive to water quality issues, so maintaining a clean environment is critical. Regular testing of water parameters and frequent water changes (around 20% weekly) are necessary to keep ammonia and nitrate levels low. A good filtration system is also vital, as this species generates a lot of waste from its high-protein diet.
- Water Changes: At least 20% weekly to maintain clean conditions.
- Filtration: Strong filtration system to handle the waste load.
Tank Mates
Due to its aggressive and predatory nature, the gulper catfish should only be housed with very carefully selected tank mates. Fish of similar size or larger, and equally aggressive species, may coexist, but anything smaller risks being consumed. Keeping the gulper catfish in a solitary setup is often the safest option.
- Compatible Tank Mates: Large, aggressive fish or species that cannot be swallowed whole.
- Avoid: Any smaller fish species that could fit in the gulper’s mouth.
📊 Datasheet
View More- DifficultyDifficult
- HardinessModerate
- Liters per Fish400 L
- Maintenance LevelHigh Maintenance
- pH6.8 - 7.8
- Minimum School Size5
- Temperature22.0 - 26.0 °C
Please note: These values are based on the average of various confirmed sources.