Pictus Catfish – Pimelodus pictus

$24.99

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Description

Pictus Catfish – Pimelodus pictus

Introduction:
The Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) is a striking and active species known for its sleek, spotted appearance and playful behavior. Native to the Amazon and Orinoco basins of South America, this catfish is popular in the aquarium trade due to its beauty and energetic swimming style. Typically reaching a size of 4–6 inches (10–15 cm), the Pictus Catfish is ideal for hobbyists with larger tanks and experience with active, medium-to-large fish. Its unique appearance and dynamic swimming make it an exciting addition to any community tank, though it requires specific care considerations.


1. Natural Habitat and Behavior

The Pictus Catfish is native to fast-flowing waters, such as rivers and streams, in the Amazon and Orinoco regions.

  • Behavior: Pictus Catfish are active, social fish that prefer to live in groups, often seen swimming in the middle to top layers of the aquarium. They are peaceful but can be a bit territorial towards smaller fish, particularly during feeding times.
  • Appearance: The Pictus Catfish has a slender, torpedo-shaped body covered in distinctive spots. These black spots on a pale silver or white body make it stand out in any aquarium. It also has long, delicate barbels and fins, which it uses to navigate its environment, often sifting through the substrate for food.

2. Aquarium Setup

  • Tank Size: A minimum tank size of 30 gallons (114 liters) is recommended for a group of 3–5 Pictus Catfish. They are active swimmers and require ample space to explore. Larger tanks are preferable if housing other active species alongside them.
  • Substrate: Use smooth gravel or sand as the substrate, as Pictus Catfish have sensitive barbels that they use to forage on the bottom. Avoid sharp or rough substrates that could cause injury.
  • Decor: Provide ample hiding places with driftwood, caves, and plants. However, ensure that there is enough open swimming space for them to move freely.
  • Water Conditions:
    • Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
    • pH: 6.0–7.5
    • Hardness: 4–12 dGH
    • Filtration: These fish thrive in well-oxygenated water, so a strong filtration system is essential. Since Pictus Catfish are native to fast-moving waters, they prefer moderate to strong water currents.
  • Lighting: Standard lighting is suitable for Pictus Catfish, though dimmer light may help reduce stress, as they can sometimes be shy in brightly lit tanks.

3. Diet and Feeding

Pictus Catfish are omnivores and will eat a variety of foods in the aquarium.

  • Staple Foods: They primarily scavenge for food, so offer sinking pellets or wafers formulated for carnivorous or omnivorous fish. These will provide them with essential nutrients.
  • Supplemental Foods: They enjoy live and frozen foods, including bloodworms, brine shrimp, and earthworms. Offering a variety of food sources will keep them healthy and provide stimulation.
  • Feeding Tips: Pictus Catfish are active feeders, so it’s best to feed them multiple times a day. Ensure that the food sinks to the bottom, as these catfish prefer to forage rather than eat from the surface. Feed them enough to ensure they can finish everything within a few minutes.

4. Compatibility with Other Fish

Pictus Catfish are generally peaceful but can be a bit territorial, especially when it comes to feeding.

  • Tank Mates: They do best with other peaceful, active species that can hold their own. Suitable tank mates include tetras, rainbowfish, gouramis, and peaceful cichlids. Avoid housing them with smaller, slow-moving fish, as they may become stressed or be harassed by the Pictus Catfish.
  • Behavior: Although Pictus Catfish are generally peaceful, they may display aggression towards smaller, slower fish during feeding times. Keeping them in a school of at least 3–5 will help reduce stress and ensure they behave more naturally.

5. Common Challenges and Tips

  • Water Quality: Pictus Catfish are sensitive to poor water conditions, so regular water changes and proper filtration are crucial. Monitor ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels regularly.
  • Feeding Behavior: These catfish are fast swimmers and can sometimes outcompete slower or more timid fish for food. Offering food at the same time and in various areas of the tank can help ensure all fish get their share.
  • Barbel Health: Pictus Catfish use their barbels to navigate and find food. Ensure the tank does not have sharp objects or rough surfaces that could cause damage.
  • Size Considerations: Although they are often sold as small juveniles, Pictus Catfish can grow quite large (up to 6 inches or more). Be sure to provide an appropriately sized tank for their adult size.

Conclusion

The Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) is a vibrant and energetic addition to a community tank, especially for aquarists with a larger aquarium. With its striking appearance, playful behavior, and ability to help keep the substrate clean, it makes a great choice for hobbyists looking for an active and visually appealing species. By ensuring that they are kept in a spacious tank, provided with a balanced diet, and housed with compatible tank mates, you can enjoy the lively antics of this beautiful catfish for many years.