How to Care for Aquarium Catfish

Catfish are everyday fish found in freshwater aquariums. Catfish are extraordinarily unique and differ from other fish in regards to their health and care. The greatest distinguishing feature of a catfish is the famous “barbells”, which look like whiskers on a cat, for this reason giving these one of a kind fish their name. The other thing that set catfish apart from any other fish is the fact that they have no scales. They also possess a dazzling, hollow ray on their fins that a stinging protein can be emitted from if the fish is irritated or in danger.

The most universal catfish found in aquariums are the armored catfish. This specie’s is smaller in size than other types of catfish and make a great addition to an aquarium. When you are planning your aquarium initially, it is best to make your mind up then whether you are going to have catfish. Your decision will impact the type of gravel or sand you will make use of as well as the pH of the water within the tank. Armored catfish like soft bottom material because they search for food within the substrate. Catfish feel more safe when they are obscure from the light, so be sure to have caves and hiding places for this variety of fish.

Generally, the care of catfish does not vary from caring for your other fish. You should try to include a food that will settle on the bottom of the aquarium as these fish are bottom feeders. The water should have a temperature in the middle to upper seventies and the pH should be neutral. This is typically the same set up and water balance you will apply to house other fish as well, so it should not be a major consideration when you insert your catfish.

Catfish are well-known to be rather crazy and comical, but this can depend on the species of catfish you have. Their behavior will be different, but as a whole, the catfish is an entertaining add-on to an aquarium. There are group and schooling catfish that get along favorably with each other. There are also loners who continually stay away from their neighbors. Catfishes are the supreme candidates for community tanks since they occupy niches and shelters on the bottom not occupied by other aquarium residents. They generally get along nicely with all types of fish. Only in combination with some bigger Cichlids can there be a issue as the Cichlids have a tendency to broaden their territorial claim to the entire aquarium.

The one issue to bear in mind before adding a catfish to your existing aquarium set-up is the enormity of the other fish. Although catfish mainly get along with nearly all fish, they are a predator and will pounce on and feed on lesser fish. Catfish are also nocturnal, and should be fed later on in the day or at night. You may have to alter the feeding times depending on what your schedule is now and what additional types of fish occupy the aquarium. With the number of species of Armored catfish, you will be sure to have a colorful and amusing aquarium with the addition of these comical fish. As with all fish, be sure to keep the aquarium clean and healthy so as to ensure the health of the fish as well as your joy for years to come.