Catfish bring a unique charm to any aquarium with their whiskers reminiscent of their feline namesake and their knack for keeping the tank clean. However, some catfish species are notorious for their insatiable appetites, capable of devouring anything that fits into their sizable mouths. If you're an enthusiast of community fish tanks, steering clear of massive species like the redtail catfish (Phractocephalus hemioliopterus) or striped Raphael catfish (Platydoras armatulus) might be wise. Instead, explore these top picks of popular, more manageable catfish commonly found in pet stores.
- Cory Catfish
Among the community-friendly catfish, Corydoras catfish stand out. With over 160 species in this genus, Corydoras catfish come in various patterns and colors, often adorned with armored scales and distinct whiskers. Varieties such as the bronze cory, albino cory (Corydoras aeneus), panda cory (C. panda), emerald green cory (C. splendens), and peppered cory (C. paleatus) are frequently available in pet stores.
Cory catfish are beloved for their playful personalities, constant foraging on the tank floor, and their occasional "winking" at observers. These catfish typically stay between 2.5–7.5 centimeters (1–3 inches) and thrive in a 75-liter (20-gallon) aquarium. Water conditions vary by species, but generally, they prefer temperatures of 22–28°C (72–82°F) and pH levels from 6.5–7.8. As bottom-dwellers, they should be kept in groups of at least six of the same species and offered a varied diet of meaty foods like sinking wafers, frozen bloodworms, and freeze-dried tubifex worms.
- Otocinclus Catfish
Otocinclus, or "otos," are renowned for their algae-eating prowess, making them essential for keeping aquariums free of algae buildup. These catfish, belonging to the Otocinclus genus, are adept at cleaning smooth surfaces covered in soft green algae, brown diatoms, and biofilm. They thrive in mature aquariums with pH levels between 6.0–7.5, temperatures of 21-26°C (70-79°F), and moderate water hardness. Otocinclus, typically 4–5 centimeters (1.5-2 inches) in size, should be housed with similarly sized tank mates to ensure they receive adequate nutrition without competition.
Although otocinclus are sometimes perceived as delicate, they are hardy when provided with optimal conditions and a varied diet. Offer them foods like Repashy Soilent Green, canned green beans, and blanched zucchini to cater to their preferences.
- Glass Catfish
The Asian glass catfish, also known as ghost catfish, is a visually striking species with a transparent, slightly iridescent body that reveals its skeleton and internal organs. These shy, midwater schooling fish thrive in groups of six or more and prefer aquariums with ample hiding spots provided by plants and driftwood. They adapt well to temperatures of 22–28°C, mildly acidic to neutral water, and moderate water hardness. Due to their smaller mouths, feed them small foods such as fish flakes, nano pellets, baby brine shrimp, and daphnia. Glass catfish are compatible with various community fish, including tetras, danios, corydoras, and smaller gouramis.
4. Pictus Catfish
For larger tanks, consider the captivating pictus catfish. Growing up to 10–15 centimeters (4–6 inches), these catfish are distinguished by their long whiskers and silvery bodies adorned with black spots. They require a spacious aquarium with dim lighting, sturdy, low-light plants, and hiding spots. Pictus catfish are robust and adaptable to pH levels of 6–8, moderate water hardness, and temperatures of 22–26°C (72–78°F). Offer them a varied diet of meaty foods, adjusting portion sizes to prevent overeating. Suitable tank mates include medium-sized, active fish that won't bother their whiskers, such as gouramis, barbs, loaches, and mollies.
Bonus: Plecostomus
Plecostomus catfish, also known as plecos or suckermouth catfish, encompass a diverse group of over 500 species. While some species grow to substantial sizes, smaller varieties like the bristlenose pleco (Ancistrus spp.) and rubber nose pleco (Chaetostoma spp.), reaching 10–15 centimeters (4–6 inches), are more suitable for community aquariums. These plecos thrive in aquariums of 75–110 liters (20–29 gallons) or larger with tropical temperatures between 23–27°C (74–80°F) and a pH range of 6.5–7.5. Provide them with dim lighting and ample hiding spots, and offer a balanced diet of sinking fish foods such as Repashy gel food, wafers, frozen foods, and canned green beans.
For those looking to provide the best food for their catfishes, be sure to check out our selection of high-quality foods. Visit this page to explore our offerings and ensure your catfish thrive.