Spiny catfish - Acanthodoras cataphractus
Scientific name: Acanthodoras cataphractus
Common name: Spiny catfish
Family: Doradidae
Usual size in fish tanks: 10 - 12 cm (3.94 - 4.72 inch)
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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.2 - 7.7
Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)
0°C 32°F30°C 86°F
Recommended temperature: 21 - 26 °C (69.8 - 78.8°F)
The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning
Where the species comes from: South America
Temperament to its own species: peaceful
Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful
Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels
Food and feeding
Spiny catfish is a nocturnal feeder; offer them some food after lights are out to make sure that they get their share of the meals. They will accept quality flake and catfish pellets along with a selection of live or frozen foods. Blood worms and brine shrimp are ideal.
Origin
South America; Spiny catfish are to be found in the tributaries of the Amazon River.
Sexing
Females will be larger than the males with a plumper body shape.
Breeding
There are mixed reports of these breeding in the aquarium. Mature pairs have been seen digging a pit in the substrate and depositing their eggs. Both parents guarded the nest until hatching but there are no reports of fry surviving past this stage.
Lifespan
The expected life span for Spiny catfish is 5-8 years.
Short description
Ensure that these fish are kept in a large aquarium. They are very shy and require a lot of hiding places along with some plants. Daytime activity is very rare as they will hide away until the darker hours.
Pictures
Bought by aqua-fish.net from jjphoto.dk.