Crocodile catfish
Introduction
The Crocodile Catfish (Bagarius suchus) is a distinctive freshwater species known for its rugged appearance and impressive size. Native to Southeast Asia, this catfish has garnered interest among aquarists due to its unique morphology and predatory nature. However, its substantial size and specific care requirements make it more suitable for experienced fishkeepers with access to large aquariums or public installations.
What makes the Crocodile Catfish stand out in the aquarium hobby?
Its crocodile-like appearance and predatory behavior offer a unique addition to specialized aquariums.
Is the Crocodile Catfish suitable for beginner aquarists?
Due to its size and care needs, it's best suited for experienced fishkeepers.
Care and Environment
Caring for a Crocodile Catfish requires a spacious and well-maintained environment. Given its potential to reach lengths of 65–70 cm, a minimum tank size of 650 liters is recommended for a single specimen. For optimal conditions or housing multiple individuals, a tank exceeding 1,000 liters is advisable.
Water parameters should be maintained within a temperature range of 18–23°C, a pH of 6.0–7.5, and hardness between 36–215 ppm. Strong filtration and regular water changes are essential to manage waste and maintain water quality. The tank should have a strong current to replicate the fish's natural riverine habitat.
The Crocodile Catfish is an obligate predator, feeding on smaller fishes, amphibians, crustaceans, and other invertebrates in the wild. In captivity, it can adapt to dead alternatives such as strips of fish flesh, whole prawns/shrimp, mussels, live river shrimp, and larger earthworms. It's important to avoid feeding mammalian or avian meat, as some lipids in these cannot be properly metabolized by the fish and may cause health issues.
The tank should be decorated with large rocks, driftwood, or lengths of plastic piping to provide hiding spots and reduce stress. Dim lighting is preferred to mimic its natural environment.
What is the ideal tank size for a Crocodile Catfish?
A minimum of 650 liters for a single fish, with larger tanks over 1,000 liters recommended for optimal conditions.
What should be included in the tank setup?
Strong filtration, a strong current, dim lighting, and hiding spots like large rocks or driftwood.
Origin and Habitat
The Crocodile Catfish is native to the Mekong River system in Thailand, Laos, and Cambodia, as well as the Chao Phraya drainage in Thailand. It inhabits large river channels, often associated with fast-flowing, turbulent rapids where it takes shelter among boulders and large rocks.
Where can the Crocodile Catfish be found in the wild?
In the Mekong River system and Chao Phraya drainage in Southeast Asia.
What type of environment does it prefer?
Fast-flowing, turbulent rapids with boulders and large rocks.
Temperament and Compatibility
The Crocodile Catfish is best maintained alone due to its predatory nature and potential size. It may view smaller tank mates as prey, and its territorial behavior can lead to aggression. Therefore, it's not recommended to house it with other fish.
Can the Crocodile Catfish be kept with other fish?
It's best kept alone to prevent predation and territorial aggression.
Is it aggressive towards humans?
While not typically aggressive towards humans, caution is advised during tank maintenance due to its size and strength.
Interesting Facts
The Crocodile Catfish gets its name from its rugged, crocodile-like appearance, featuring a bony cranium and sharp ridges on its head. In the wild, it is known to inhabit fast-flowing rapids, showcasing its adaptability to turbulent environments. Despite its formidable size and predatory nature, it has been successfully kept in large, specialized aquariums by experienced fishkeepers.
Why is it called the Crocodile Catfish?
Due to its rugged, crocodile-like appearance with a bony cranium and sharp ridges.
Can it adapt to aquarium life?
Yes, with proper care and a suitable environment, it can thrive in large aquariums.
Sources
All information in this article has been gathered from the following reputable sources:
Overview
Recommended Tank Size 264.2 Gallon (+ for optimal conditions or housing multiple individuals) |
Minimum Group Size 1 |
Maximum Adult Size |
Minimum Tank Volume 171.7 Gallon |
Maximum Adult Length 27.6 inch |
Average Adult Length 25.6 inch |
Shoaling (6+ required) No |
Preferred Water Type Freshwater, soft to moderately hard, slightly acidic to neutral |
Temperature Range (°C) 18–23 |
pH Range 6.0–7.5 |
Water Hardness (dGH) 2–12 |
Typical Lifespan (years) Data limited |