Catfish – Driftwood Cat Medium – 8cm

Driftwood Catfish – A Unique and Mysterious Bottom-Dweller

The Driftwood Catfish (Auchenipterichthys coracoideus), also known as the Honeycomb Driftwood Catfish, is a fascinating and nocturnal freshwater species. Native to South America, this elusive catfish is named for its tendency to hide in driftwood and mimic its surroundings. Its peaceful temperament and intriguing behaviour make it an excellent addition to community aquariums, especially for aquarists looking to add a unique bottom-dweller.

Size and Lifespan

The Driftwood Catfish typically grows to around 10–12 cm (4–5 inches) in length. With proper care, including clean water and a varied diet, it can live up to 8 years in captivity. Maintaining a well-structured environment ensures this shy fish remains healthy and stress-free.

Ideal Tank Setup

A 120-litre tank or larger is recommended to provide ample space for this species to explore and hide. To replicate its natural habitat, consider the following:

• Use a soft sand or fine gravel substrate to accommodate its bottom-dwelling nature.
• Add plenty of driftwood, caves, and dense plants to create hiding spots.
• Keep lighting dim or subdued to match its nocturnal behaviour.

Water Parameters

• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Filtration: Use gentle filtration to maintain pristine water quality without creating strong currents.

Compatible Tank Mates

The Driftwood Catfish is peaceful and thrives in community tanks with similarly calm species. Ideal companions include:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras catfish
• Small peaceful cichlids

Avoid housing them with aggressive or overly active fish that may stress them or disrupt their nocturnal habits. Keeping a small group of Driftwood Catfish (3–5 individuals) allows them to feel secure and display natural behaviours.

Feeding and Nutrition

Driftwood Catfish are omnivorous and prefer a diet rich in protein. Since they are nocturnal, feed them in the evening or at night to match their activity levels. Suitable foods include:

• Sinking pellets
• Live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, or daphnia
• Blanched vegetables, like courgette or cucumber, as occasional treats

Feed them once daily, ensuring the food sinks to the bottom where they can easily access it.

Breeding and Behaviour

Breeding Driftwood Catfish in captivity is rare and challenging due to their specific environmental needs. Males can be identified by their more slender body shape, while females are rounder, particularly when carrying eggs. To attempt breeding:

1. Provide a well-decorated tank with plenty of driftwood and hiding spaces.
2. Maintain slightly acidic water and stable conditions.

These fish are known for their secretive behaviour, often hiding during the day and becoming active at night. Watching them emerge under dim lighting is a treat for aquarists who enjoy observing natural nocturnal activity.

Species Overview

• Species: Auchenipterichthys coracoideus
• Common Name: Driftwood Catfish
• Origin: South America
• Diet: Omnivorous
• pH Range: 6.0–7.5
• Temperature: 24–28°C
• Max Size: 10–12 cm (4–5 inches)
• Tank Size: Minimum 120 litres

FAQs About Driftwood Catfish

1. How big do Driftwood Catfish get?
   “They grow to a manageable size of 10–12 cm, ideal for medium-sized aquariums.”
2. Are they suitable for community tanks?
   “Yes, they thrive with peaceful fish like tetras, Corydoras, and rasboras.”
3. What do Driftwood Catfish eat?
   “They enjoy sinking pellets, live or frozen protein-based foods, and occasional vegetables.”
4. When are they most active?
   “As nocturnal fish, they are most active at night or under dim lighting.”
5. Do they need to be kept in groups?
   “Yes, keeping 3–5 individuals allows them to feel secure and show natural behaviour.”

Add a Driftwood Catfish to Your Aquarium Today!

Introduce the mysterious and fascinating Driftwood Catfish to your tank. Perfect for aquarists who enjoy observing unique nocturnal behaviours, this peaceful species is sure to captivate. Order yours today and bring home this incredible bottom-dweller!