Oil catfish Breeding Guide

Breeding Centromochlus perugiae in captivity is rare and not well-documented, but a few dedicated aquarists have seen success under very specific conditions. Like many driftwood catfish, they are cave-spawning egg layers that prefer dim, quiet tanks with soft, slightly acidic water and plenty of hiding spots. To encourage breeding, it’s best to simulate the onset of the rainy season by gradually lowering the temperature and increasing water changes with slightly cooler, soft water. Providing narrow caves or tight crevices—such as small PVC pipes or coconut shells—is essential, as the female will lay her eggs inside and the male may guard them. Spawning usually happens at night, and eggs are adhesive, attaching to the walls of the chosen site. If successful, fry should hatch within a few days and must be transferred to a separate tank to prevent predation. They require very fine live foods like infusoria or baby brine shrimp initially. Because of their secretive nature, successful breeding often goes unnoticed until tiny fry emerge from hiding, so patience and careful observation are key.