🐟 Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus)
🐟 Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus)
Freshwater Catfish • Nocturnal Bottom Swimmer • Active Schooling Catfish • Long-Whiskered Species
📋 The Pictus Catfish (Pimelodus pictus) is a striking South American catfish admired for its spotted pattern and constant movement.
This species is a fast, active schooling catfish that thrives in groups and open swimming space.
Primarily a nocturnal bottom swimmer, it becomes especially lively during dusk and low-light periods.
Recognized as a long-whiskered species, it uses extended barbels to navigate and hunt, requiring smooth décor and ample room to move.
💡 Highlights
✨ Spotted Silver Pattern: Bold black spots on a metallic body
🌙 Nocturnal Bottom Swimmer: Most active in low light
⚪ Active Schooling Catfish: Best kept in groups
🪱 Long-Whiskered Species: Extremely long barbels
📏 Fast & Energetic: Requires swimming space
🧾 A Quick Look at the Pictus Catfish
📛 Common Name: Pictus Catfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Pimelodus pictus
👨👩👧 Family: Pimelodidae
🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon & Orinoco basins)
📏 Max Size: 12–15 cm (≈ 4.7–6″)
💧 pH Range: 6.0–7.5
🌡️ Temperature Range: 24–28 °C (≈ 75–82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Moderate
💖 Temperament: Peaceful but predatory
🏠 Min Tank Size: 200 L (≈ 55 gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Bottom–Midwater
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 8–10 years
🍽️ Diet: Carnivore / Omnivore
🐣 Reproduction: Not recorded in home aquariums

















