More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 60 litres / 15.85 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 2.7cm / 1.06inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 28°C / 82.40°F |
| Hardness | 1.01dgH / 18ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 5.0-7.5 |
Behaviour:
The Reticulated Driftwood Catfish is a peaceful species suitable for a community aquarium with other small, quiet fishes. It is highly social and thrives best when kept in groups of at least 8 individuals. Unlike many catfish species, they are active feeders and readily come out of hiding to feed, often even at the water's surface.
Feeding and Diet:
Centromochlus Reticulatus, also known as the Reticulated Driftwood Catfish, enjoys a diet that includes sinking dried foods, but they particularly relish small live and frozen options like bloodworms and Tubifex. Once acclimated, they eagerly leave their hiding spots to feed, displaying a unique behavior of actively feeding at the surface - a trait uncommon in most catfish.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:
All members of the Auchenipteridae family, to which Centromochlus Reticulatus belongs, are believed to practice internal fertilization. Females can carry unfertilized eggs and sperm packets within their bodies until conditions are suitable for fertilization and egg deposition. Adult males of this species can be distinguished by their elongated, pointed anal fin, while females have a rounded anal fin. Additionally, males have a urogenital papilla emerging from a small flap of skin at the anal fin's origin.
Habitat and Distribution:
In their natural habitat, these catfish seek refuge among submerged woody structures during the day and emerge at night to forage. This behavior has led to them being commonly known as "wood" or "driftwood" catfishes within the Auchenipteridae family. Found initially in the upper Rupununi River basin in Guyana, they have also been spotted in other areas like the rio Preto da Eva in Brazil and Peru. Their secretive and mostly nocturnal habits may have led to their overlooked presence in different regions.
Aquarium Setup:
Maintaining the Reticulated Driftwood Catfish in an aquarium requires attention to a tank designed to mimic a flowing stream. With a minimum tank size of 60 liters, the setup should include a substrate mix of rocks, sand, fine gravel, and boulders. Driftwood branches and various hiding spots like terracotta pipes and plant pots should be provided for shelter. Surface vegetation such as Ceratopteris species adds to their comfort. The water conditions should ideally have a hardness range of 18-215ppm, a pH level between 5.0-7.5, and a temperature set between 22-28 degrees Celsius.