Neptune’s rating:
62- AffordabilityModerate
- Aggression LevelVery Peaceful
- Breeding AggressionSlightly More Aggressive
- DifficultyModerate
- HardinessModerate
- Length15.0 - 30.0 cm
- Liters per Fish50 L
- Maintenance LevelLow Maintenance
- pH6.0 - 7.5
- PopularityPopular
- RarityUncommon
- Minimum School Size4
- Tank HabitatSurface Dweller, Mid-tank Dweller, Bottom Dweller
- Temperature22.0 - 28.0 °C
- Territorial BehaviourModerately Territorial
Please note: These values are based on the average of various confirmed sources.
More about Oil catfish
The Oil catfish, known scientifically as *Rita rita*, is a species of catfish native to the rivers and freshwater habitats of South Asia, particularly in countries like India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. This catfish is primarily dark in color, often featuring a sleek, dark gray or blackish body that allows it to blend seamlessly with the riverbeds and murky waters of its natural environment. With its slender, elongated body and distinctive barbels around the mouth, characteristic of many catfish species, the Oil catfish showcases a typical catfish appearance.
Despite its interesting characteristics, the Oil catfish is not particularly well-known or widespread in the aquarium hobby. This may be due to its larger size, specific care requirements, or simply a lack of commercial interest. In its native regions, however, it may be more appreciated both for its ecological role and its value as a food fish.