Pictus Catfish

Pimelodus pictus

A fast, silver, long-whiskered catfish that will eat any fish small enough to swallow.

Water

Freshwater

Temperature

72–79°F

pH

6–7.5

Hardness

4–15 dGH

Max size

5 in

Min tank

55 gal

Temperament

Peaceful

Social

Groups (3+)

Swim level

Bottom

Diet

Carnivore

Care level

Intermediate

Lifespan

8-10 years

Breeding

Egg-scatterer

Suitability

Common

Origin

Amazon and Orinoco basins

Pictus cats are active schooling predators with sharp pectoral spines that snag in nets. House them with fish too big to be eaten and give plenty of swimming room.