Striped raphael catfish Care Guide

Habitat and Tank Setup

In its natural environment, the Striped Raphael Catfish inhabits slow-moving waters with sandy bottoms and dense vegetation. To replicate this in an aquarium, a tank should have plenty of hiding spots created with driftwood, rocks, and dense plants. A fine sand substrate is ideal for this bottom-dwelling species, as it prefers to sift through the substrate in search of food. A tank size of at least 150 liters (40 gallons) is recommended to accommodate its size and allow for sufficient swimming space.

Water Parameters

The Striped Raphael Catfish thrives in tropical freshwater conditions, with water temperatures ranging between 22°C and 28°C. This species prefers slightly acidic to neutral water, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Maintaining stable water parameters is crucial, as fluctuations can cause stress and health issues.

Diet and Feeding

The Striped Raphael Catfish is omnivorous and feeds on a variety of foods, both in the wild and in captivity. In the aquarium, it will accept sinking pellets, frozen foods, and live foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp. It is a bottom feeder that will scavenge for food along the substrate. A well-balanced diet with a mix of high-quality pellets and occasional live or frozen treats ensures optimal health.

Tank Mates

The Striped Raphael Catfish is a peaceful species and generally does well with other non-aggressive fish. Its armored body protects it from being harassed by more boisterous tank mates, but it is best to avoid housing it with highly aggressive fish. Ideal companions include peaceful community fish like tetras, angelfish, and corydoras.