Overview
The pictus catfish is a sleek, silver river fish covered in black spots, which is how it got its name (pictus means painted in Latin). It comes from the fast-flowing waters of the Amazon and Orinoco river systems in South America. Its most eye-catching feature is a pair of super-long whiskers, called barbels, that can stretch back past its tail. The catfish uses these barbels like feelers to taste and touch its way around the riverbed, especially at night.
Pictus catfish are always on the move, zooming around the tank looking for food. They are peaceful with fish their own size, but they will happily gobble up any tiny tankmate that fits in their mouth, so they should not share a home with very small fish. They also have sharp, stiff fin spines that can get tangled in nets, so keepers scoop them up with a cup instead.
| Care level | Moderate |
| Adult size | 5 in (13 cm) |
| Lifespan | 8-10 years |
| Temperament | Peaceful but active |
| Min. tank | 55 gal (208 L) |
| Temperature | 75-81 F (24-27 C) |
| pH | 6.5-7.5 |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Schooling | Yes, groups of 3 or more |
Whiskers that never stop working
Those long barbels are packed with taste and smell sensors. In muddy river water where it is hard to see, the pictus catfish feels and tastes its surroundings to hunt for insects, worms, and bits of food on the bottom.
Built for a busy river
In the wild these catfish live in rivers with a steady current. In a tank they love open swimming room and a gentle flow from the filter. A long, wide aquarium suits them far better than a tall, narrow one.
Friends, not loners
Pictus catfish feel safest in a small group of three or more. Kept alone they can act nervous and hide, but in a group they are bolder and more fun to watch as they patrol the tank together.
Careful with those spines
The pictus has hard, pointed spines on its fins. They help protect it from predators, but they snag easily in a soft net. Experienced keepers guide the fish into a container instead of netting it.
A night owl that learns the schedule
In the wild they are most active after dark. In an aquarium they quickly learn feeding times and will come out during the day once they feel comfortable and know a meal is coming.
Fun facts
- The name pictus means painted, a nod to its spotted silver body.
- Its barbels can be longer than the rest of its entire body.
- It comes from the Amazon and Orinoco rivers of South America.
- It can make faint croaking sounds by wiggling parts of its body.
- Pictus catfish are cousins of much bigger South American catfish species.
Frequently asked questions
Will a pictus catfish eat my other fish?
It can eat any fish small enough to fit in its mouth, like tiny tetras. Keep it with fish about its own size and everyone gets along fine.
Do pictus catfish need to be in a group?
Yes. They are happiest in a group of three or more and act shy and stressed when kept all alone.
Why should I not use a net on them?
Their sharp fin spines get tangled in net fibers. It is safer to scoop them into a cup or container.
How big a tank do they need?
Because they are fast swimmers, they need at least a 55 gallon tank with plenty of open space to zoom around.
