Did you know there are many catfish species that are perfect for the aquarium? These catfish species are much smaller than the regular flatheads. They are beautiful and have brilliant colors, which makes them perfect as ornamental fish.
Small Catfish Species Found in Freshwater
Small catfish species are mostly raised for display in aquariums; they do not grow big enough to produce meat and have an average lifespan when they are well cared for in the fish tank. It is easy to spot these catfish, they also have barbels like the bigger catfish species, but the barbels on smaller catfish are less pronounced.
The smaller catfish species are sought after by owners of aquariums because they feed on algae, among other things. These catfish species can eliminate traces of algae in the fish tank or aquarium keeping it clean.
Smaller catfish species are also known to be quite territorial; they become aggressive when other fish species trespass their zone in the fish tank. However, many owners of aquariums prefer smaller catfish because they are easy to manage and keep the aquarium clean.
Here are some of the fascinating smaller freshwater catfish species you can buy for an aquarium or fish tank.
Bristlenose Pleco
This catfish species grows to only about 5” at maturity. It can be found in different colors, mostly dark brown with yellowish markings all over its body. The Bristlenose Pleco is one of the most effective bottom feeders and stays mostly hidden in fish tanks. It is more active at night. You can find this small catfish species in aquariums all over the world because it has a large appetite for algae and keeps the fish tank clean. Averagely, they are easy to maintain and less aggressive with other fish.
The pictus catfish is always shy, or should we say they can be cautious surroundings. This small catfish species grows to about 3” only. It can be found hiding under rocks and in brush piles. The Pictus catfish is also a fast swimmer, but not quick enough for larger predators. It looks beautiful, with a silver body and dark splotches on its skin. The pictus catfish feeds on plants and worms.
At maturity, the Cory catfish measures only 3” they survive in large schools and are quite vulnerable, so it is best always to check the water in the fish tank. Cory catfish feed on aquatic plants and small microscopic organisms in the water. They can also eat baby fish just hatched from other fish species.
Upside down catfish
This is another small catfish species that grow to about 3” only. They thrive in medium-sized schools and need enough space to swim around. The upside down catfish are popular because they swim differently in an upside position. These fish feed on aquatic plants and worms.
Raphael catfish
While they are among the biggest in the smallest catfish category, these species grow to only about 10” at maturity. They have dark brown skin with prominent yellowish stripes running down their bodies. They swim very fast and can survive predators because they are quite larger than other small-sized catfish species.
