🐟 Porthole Catfish (Dianema longibarbis)
🐟 Porthole Catfish (Dianema longibarbis)
Freshwater Catfish • Nocturnal Bottom Dweller • Peaceful Community Fish • Armored Catfish Species
📋 The Porthole Catfish (Dianema longibarbis) is a unique and hardy catfish recognized by its translucent “porthole” markings along the body.
This species is a true nocturnal bottom dweller, becoming most active during low-light hours as it explores the substrate.
With its calm temperament, it is a reliable peaceful community fish that coexists well with other non-aggressive tankmates.
As an armored catfish species, it features bony plates for protection and thrives in well-maintained aquariums with soft substrate and hiding areas.
💡 Highlights
✨ Distinct Porthole Markings: Translucent body spots along the flanks
🌙 Nocturnal Bottom Dweller: Most active at night
⚪ Peaceful Community Fish: Suitable for calm aquariums
🛡️ Armored Catfish Species: Natural bony protection
📏 Hardy & Adaptable: Tolerates a range of stable conditions
🧾 A Quick Look at the Porthole Catfish
📛 Common Name: Porthole Catfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Dianema longibarbis
👨👩👧 Family: Callichthyidae
🌍 Origin: South America (Amazon & Paraguay river basins)
📏 Max Size: 12–15 cm (≈ 4.7–6″)
💧 pH Range: 6.0–7.5
🌡️ Temperature Range: 23–28 °C (≈ 73–82 °F)
🧠 Care Level: Easy–Moderate
💖 Temperament: Peaceful
🏠 Min Tank Size: 120 L (≈ 30 gallons)
📌 Tank Level: Bottom
🧬 Captive Bred: ❌ No
🌿 Wild Caught: ✅ Yes
⏳ Lifespan: 8–12 years
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore (sinking foods, worms, pellets)
🐣 Reproduction: Rare in home aquariums

















