Pictus Catfish

The Pictus Catfish is a popular and attractive catfish with long whisker-like barbels and a silver body covered in black spots. Native to the Amazon, these active, fast-swimming catfish are constantly on the move. They are peaceful but grow to 5 inches and need larger tanks. Pictus Catfish are schooling fish that should be kept in groups of 3+ and are sensitive to poor water conditions. They will eat very small fish and invertebrates and require excellent filtration.

Care Requirements

Tank Setup

Pictus Catfish need space and excellent filtration.

Essential Setup:

• 55+ gallons minimum
• Open swimming space
• Caves or hiding spots
• Strong filtration
• Temperature 75-82°F

Water Quality

• Temperature: 75-82°F (24-28°C)
• pH: 6.0-7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (3-15 dGH)
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
• Nitrate: <20 ppm

Sensitive to poor water quality. Need excellent filtration.

Feeding

Omnivorous bottom feeders:

• Sinking pellets or wafers
• Frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp
• Live worms
• Small fish (in wild)

Behavior & Compatibility

Active and somewhat delicate:

• Schooling: Keep 3+ minimum
• Active swimmers: Constantly moving
• Peaceful: Won’t harm appropriately sized fish
• Sensitive: To poor water quality

Good Tank Mates:

• Medium tetras
• Gouramis
• Medium cichlids
• Fish over 2 inches

Avoid:

• Fish under 1.5 inches (may be eaten)
• Small shrimp
• Delicate fish

Active Nature

• Constant movement: Always swimming
• Fast: Quick, darting movements
• Sensitive to light: Prefer dimmed conditions
• Barbels: Long, whisker-like

Special Considerations

• Scaleless: Sensitive to medications
• Water quality: Very important
• Jumpers: Secure lid recommended
• Active: Need open swimming space

Breeding

Rarely bred in captivity:

• Egg scatterers
• Commercial breeding
• Difficult for hobbyists

Tips for Success

• Keep in groups of 3+
• Excellent water quality essential
• 55+ gallons recommended
• Will eat small fish/shrimp
• Active and entertaining
• Sensitive to poor conditions