Banjo Catfish

Banjo catfish are shaped like a banjo, with prehistoric appearing scales to complete the look. The knock on these peaceful scavengers is that they tend to just sit about the bottom of the fish tank until night, when they troll for treats. As long as you do not expect a spectacular swimming demonstration, these are very nice fish for the aquarium. Though the appearance is odd, banjo catfish are very common in South America.

Quick Facts

Care Guide

Tank setup: Banjo catfish like to bury themselves, so give them a soft sand bottom, leaf litter and driftwood. Keep the lighting dim.

Feeding: Feed sinking pellets once a day, ideally in the evening when they are most active. They also enjoy frozen foods like bloodworms.

Tankmates: They are peaceful and get along with most community fish too large to fit in their mouth.

Good to know: Banjo catfish can shed their skin, which is normal, and they often stay buried with just their head showing.