What is a Spotted Raphael Catfish?
The spotted Raphael Catfish is known for its beautiful spotted pattern among hobbyists. It’s temperament, characteristics and popularity have made it one of the most well-known species of the catfish family.
Origin
This species of catfish originates from the beautiful waters of the Amazon, and it still calls those gorgeous rivers home today.
Appearance
The spotted Raphael Catfish is known for its spotted appearance. It’s a dark brown or black body with an irregular pattern of white or soft yellow spots is easy to identify. Sometimes, these fish can also be found with a few stripes that will run together along their fins. This only adds to their appeal among hobbyists.
Talking Spotted Catfish
Occasionally, individuals will refer to this fish as the spotted talking Raphael Catfish. They rub their fin along their shoulders to emit a noise that sounds like the croak of a frog. This helps them scare away potential threats. In captivity, most owners will hear this noise when they remove the fish from its tank. Although it is interesting, it is important for owners to note that these fish make this noise because they feel threatened.
Nocturnal
Often, these fish will hide during the day. Because of this, it is important that there are plenty of caves and plants for them to claim as their own when the sun is out. They also enjoy burrowing in the river bottom, so owners need to replicate that in their own aquarium. A soft sandy bottom or other substrates will keep these fish happy. Driftwood is another popular choice. These fish feel safe when they are nestled into a tight space, like the one underneath driftwood. Owners that would like to see them will need to invest in a dim light that will illuminate the tank at night to enjoy their aesthetic appeal.
Aquarium Setup
Along with warm water, slow current and plenty of decorations, aquarium owners are encouraged to include floating plants in their set up. When there are plenty of plants floating on top of the water, it provides enough shade to help these nocturnal creatures feel safe and secure.
Tankmates
These fish do well in a community aquarium, but owners should beware of housing them with smaller fish. Smaller fish can quickly become a snack. Larger fish or fish that are the same size as they are the perfect tankmates. The spotted Raphael catfish can also be housed with other aggressive fish. It has a sharp spine that will protect it from attacks. It is important to note that this spine can hurt other fish if they attack it, however.
Diet
In nature, these fish are known to feed on plants, insects, worms, and crustaceans. In captivity, a combination of fish food and fresh food will keep these fish healthy.
Size
In the wild, spotted Raphael catfish are known to grow as large as six inches. Their small stature is one of the reasons that they are so popular among beginners that do not want to invest in a large aquarium just yet.
The Raphael catfish is a tropical fish that remains a wonderful choice for hobbyists regardless of their experience level. They are easy to maintain, relaxing to watch and their shy nature makes them adorable.
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