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Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 96 litres / 25.36 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 11.0cm / 4.33inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Hardness | 0.00dgH / 0ppm - 10.03dgH / 179ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.2 |
General DescriptionThe Auchenipterichthys Coracoideus, commonly known as the Midnight Catfish, is a species that belongs to the Auchenipteridae family within the order Siluriformes. It is a nocturnal fish that feeds primarily on insects and their larvae in its natural habitat.
Aquarium Setup
Ideal tank conditions for the Midnight Catfish include a minimum tank size of 96 litres with water parameters set at a pH range of 6.0-7.2, hardness between 0-179ppm, and a temperature of 22-25°C. The aquarium should offer plenty of hiding spots such as driftwood and dense plantings while keeping water movement minimal to cater to its shy nature (see table).
BehaviourThis species is characterized as peaceful and shy, exhibiting a tendency to consume very small fish during nighttime. Midnight Catfish are non-aggressive towards their own kind and can be kept either singly or in a group. They are best housed with similarly sized, non-aggressive characins, cichlids, and other catfish species from families like Callichthyidae and Loricariidae.
Feeding and DietIn the wild, the Midnight Catfish feeds predominantly on insects and their larvae. In captivity, they should be offered a diet of live and frozen foods like bloodworms and small earthworms. While some individuals may eventually acclimate to sinking dried foods, providing a natural feeding schedule by adding food at lights out is recommended, especially during the acclimation phase.
Reproduction & DimorphismLimited information is available regarding the reproduction of the Midnight Catfish. However, they have been bred in captivity, where internal fertilization occurs, with females laying eggs directly onto the substrate. Males develop a hook-like extension at the anal fin tip for copulation. Nuptial males display an elongated dorsal spine compared to females.
Habitat and DistributionThe Midnight Catfish is commonly found in turbid rivers, tributaries, and flooded areas throughout the upper and central regions of the Peruvian/Brazilian Amazon basin and the Essequibo drainage in Brazil and Guyana. Originally described from Iquitos in northeastern Peru, this species has a wider distribution range than initially believed.