Striped wallago catfish Care Guide

General Care

The Striped Wallago Catfish is a resilient species suitable for aquarists with some experience. They prefer water with a pH range between 6.5 and 7.5 and thrive in temperatures ranging from 24°C to 28°C. These catfish require a significant amount of space due to their maximum length of 45 cm, hence a minimum of 200 liters of water per fish is recommended.

Tank Setup

These fish are known to be highly territorial, displaying aggressive behavior, especially during breeding periods. A large, spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots is essential to simulate their natural habitat and minimize conflicts. Providing structures such as caves and driftwood will help recreate their natural environment and give them space to retreat if needed.

Striped Wallago Catfish inhabit various levels in the tank – surface, mid, and bottom – so a tank with vertical space that allows for these different zones is ideal. Given their aggressive and semi-aggressive temperament with other species, careful selection of tank mates is crucial. They are best kept in small groups with a minimum school size of six, provided there is ample space.

Feeding

The Striped Wallago Catfish has a diverse diet and thrives on both protein-rich foods and vegetable matter. Their diet can include flakes, pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, frozen shrimp, algae wafers, color-enhancing food, and feeder fish, which fulfill their nutritional requirements and natural predatory instinct. It is crucial to provide a balanced diet to maintain their health and coloration.

Behavior and Compatibility

This species is known for its playful and sometimes shy nature. While they are generally aggressive and highly territorial, some can also display social tendencies when kept in suitable conditions. It is advisable to monitor their behavior closely, especially during breeding aggression, which can increase to moderate levels.

Maintenance and Affordability

Striped Wallago Catfish require moderate maintenance to keep their environment clean and ensure water quality is consistently maintained within their preferred ranges. Despite their moderate care difficulty, they are considered moderately affordable, making them accessible for dedicated aquarists who are ready to manage their specific requirements.