Catfish – Black Lancer Catfish – 6cm

LIVE FISH – Black Lancer Catfish

The black lancer catfish captivates with its sleek, jet-black body and lance-like dorsal fin, adding elegance to aquariums. Native to Southeast Asia, this nocturnal fish thrives in community tanks. Consequently, its graceful movements draw attention. Moreover, its peaceful nature suits dedicated hobbyists. Let’s dive into its care requirements to ensure this striking catfish flourishes in your tank.

Appearance

The black lancer catfish boasts a slender, jet-black body with a distinctive lance-shaped dorsal fin. Its elongated shape enhances its graceful gliding. Growing to 25cm, it stands out under dim lighting. Additionally, its sleek form creates a striking contrast. Thus, this catfish adds a touch of exotic beauty to any aquarium setup.

Tank Setup

Black lancer catfish thrive in a 150-liter tank with soft sand or fine gravel substrate. Add driftwood, rocks, and dense plants for hiding spots. Maintain a pH of 6.5–7.5 and temperatures of 24°C–28°C. Furthermore, dim lighting mimics their natural habitat. Consequently, this setup supports their nocturnal behavior and promotes overall health.

Ideal Tank Mates

Black lancer catfish coexist peacefully with calm fish like barbs, gouramis, or rasboras. Avoid aggressive or tiny species to prevent stress. Keep them singly or in small groups to minimize competition. Additionally, match water conditions for harmony. Thus, a balanced community ensures these catfish thrive without conflict.

Diet and Feeding

Black lancer catfish eagerly consume carnivorous diets. Offer sinking pellets, live worms, or frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. Feed once daily at night to suit their nocturnal habits. Moreover, ensure food reaches the bottom. This diet supports their health and enhances their sleek appearance, keeping them active.

Breeding

Breeding black lancer catfish in captivity proves challenging, with little documented success. Use a spacious tank with stable water at 24°C–26°C and ample hiding spots. Their shy, nocturnal nature complicates spawning. Consequently, most aquarium specimens come from specialized breeders. Thus, focus on providing optimal care rather than breeding attempts.

Species Overview

• Species – Bagrichthys macracanthus
• Common Name – Black Lancer Catfish
• Origin – Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia)
• Diet – Carnivorous
• PH Range – 6.5 – 7.5
• Temperature – Tropical 24–28°C
• Breed Type – Egg layer
• Current Size – approximately 3.5cm (Grows to approximately 25cm)
• Max Size – 25cm
• Tank Size – Minimum 150 liters
• Sex – Un-sexed

FAQs

What tank size suits black lancer catfish?
A 150-liter tank with hiding spots supports their nocturnal nature.

Are they catfish aggressive?
No, they are peaceful and prefer calm tank mates.

How often should I feed them?
Feed once daily at night with sinking pellets or frozen foods.

Can they be bred in home aquariums?
Breeding is rare and challenging due to limited documentation.