Overview
The ripsaw catfish is a heavily armored giant from the Amazon and Orinoco river systems of South America. It gets its name from the row of tough, spiky bony plates running down each side of its body, which look and feel like the teeth of a saw. These plates act like a suit of armor, protecting the fish from bigger predators in the murky river.
Though it has a spooky, prehistoric look, the ripsaw catfish is actually a gentle giant that spends its days snuffling along the bottom for fallen fruit, seeds, snails, and scraps. The catch is its size: it can grow two to three feet long, making it another true tank buster. Only expert keepers with huge, custom aquariums, or public aquariums, can give this slow-growing, long-lived fish the space it truly needs.
| Care level | Expert only |
| Adult size | 2-3 ft (60-100 cm) |
| Lifespan | 20+ years |
| Temperament | Peaceful giant |
| Min. tank | 800+ gal (3,000+ L) |
| Temperature | 72-82 F (22-28 C) |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Schooling | No, kept alone |
A saw made of armor
A line of pointed bony plates runs along each side of the ripsaw catfish, giving it a saw-toothed edge. This armor helps shield it from predators, and it is where the fish gets its name.
A gentle giant, not a hunter
Despite its tough, spiky look, the ripsaw is calm and peaceful. It slowly cruises the riverbed eating fruit, seeds, snails, and leftover bits rather than chasing down other fish.
Another true tank buster
The ripsaw catfish can reach two to three feet long, so it needs a huge tank of hundreds of gallons. Most homes simply cannot provide that, which is why it is best left to experts and public aquariums.
It can make sounds
Like some of its catfish relatives, the ripsaw can produce grunting or croaking noises by moving its fins and swim bladder. These sounds may help it talk to other catfish or startle a predator.
A very long life
Ripsaw catfish can live more than 20 years. Keeping one is a huge, decades-long promise, so it should never be an impulse buy from a store.
Fun facts
- The ripsaw catfish can grow two to three feet long.
- A row of spiky bony plates runs down each side like saw teeth.
- It lives in the Amazon and Orinoco rivers of South America.
- It is a peaceful eater of fruit, seeds, and snails.
- It can live for more than 20 years.
Frequently asked questions
Is the ripsaw catfish dangerous?
Not to other fish, since it is peaceful. But its sharp, spiky armor can scratch, so keepers handle it very carefully.
Can I keep one in a normal fish tank?
No. It grows far too big and needs a huge custom tank of hundreds of gallons. It is really a fish for experts or public aquariums.
What does a ripsaw catfish eat?
It is a peaceful bottom feeder that eats fruit, seeds, snails, and scraps rather than hunting other fish.
Why is it called a ripsaw?
Because the row of spiky bony plates along each side looks and feels like the sharp teeth of a saw.
