🦈 Columbian Shark (Ariopsis seemanni)
🦈 Columbian Shark (Ariopsis seemanni)
Active Predator • Brackish-to-Marine Fish • Shark-Like Catfish
📋 The Columbian Shark (Ariopsis seemanni) is a brackish catfish often mistaken for a true shark due to its sleek silver body, forked tail, and constant cruising behavior. Juveniles are usually sold as freshwater fish, but for long-term success they must be gradually transitioned to brackish and eventually marine water.
Growing up to 35 cm (14"), these fish require large aquariums with powerful filtration. They are active predators, so they should not be housed with small fish that can fit into their mouths. Instead, they thrive in groups with other large brackish or marine species.
With their impressive shark-like swimming style and shimmering silver coloration, Columbian Sharks make a stunning display species for experienced aquarists.
💡 Highlights
✨ Shark-like swimming style – forked tail & sleek body
⚪ Brackish-to-marine species – requires salinity changes as it grows
📏 Can reach up to 14" – needs very large tanks
✅ Active schooling catfish – prefers groups for natural behavior
🐠 Predatory nature – best with large tankmates only
🧾 A Quick Look at the Columbian Shark
📛 Common Name: Columbian Shark / Silver-Tip Shark Catfish / Tete Sea Catfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Ariopsis seemanni
👨👩👧 Family: Ariidae
🌍 Origin: Central & South America (Pacific coast estuaries & rivers)
📏 Max Size: 30 – 35 cm (≈ 12 – 14")
💧 pH Range: 7.5 – 8.5
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24 – 28 °C (75 – 82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Intermediate – requires salinity transition as it grows
💖 Temperament: Semi-aggressive; predatory toward small fish
🪸 Reef Safe: No – will eat small marine species
🏠 Min Tank Size: 380 L (100 US gallons) minimum
📌 Tank Level: Mid to bottom swimmer
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 10 – 15 years
🍽️ Diet: Carnivore/omnivore (fish, shrimp, pellets, sinking carnivore foods)
🐣 Reproduction: Not bred in aquariums; mouthbrooding in the wild

















