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Freshwater fishTiger Shovelnose Catfish
Tiger Shovelnose Catfish
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The Tiger Shovelnose Catfish has a classic sleek body with broad tiger stripes and they will grow to two feet in the aquarium over time, so this fish should be kept only with larger species.
These are beautiful catfish with a long flowing body and are caught in the upper Amazonian basin of Peru. These fish come in pattern variations from spotted to striped depending upon the stream they are caught in.
Quick Facts
| Scientific Name | Pseudoplatystoma fasciatum |
| Origin | Amazon and Orinoco basins, South America |
| Care Level | Moderate (grows very large) |
| Temperament | Predatory |
| Adult Size | Up to 2 feet in aquariums |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years |
| Diet | Carnivore (meaty foods) |
| Water Temperature | 75–82°F |
| pH | 6.0–7.5 |
| Group Size | Single |
| Shipping Size | Approx. 4–8" |
Care Guide
Tank setup: Shovelnose catfish grow large and are strong swimmers. Give them open swimming space, a sand bottom, strong filtration and a heavy, tight lid.
Feeding: Feed meaty foods like quality carnivore pellets and frozen shrimp or fish. Many learn to take pellets once settled. Avoid feeder fish, which can carry disease.
Tankmates: They will eat any fish that fits in their mouth. Keep them only with large, robust fish.
Good to know: Tiger shovelnose catfish are fast swimmers and can startle easily, so a heavy, secure lid is important.
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