More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 648 litres / 171.18 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 45.0cm / 17.72inches |
| Temperature | 23°C / 73.40°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Hardness | 5-25ºdH |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
General Description
The Sun Catfish, also known as the bullseye, solar, eclipse, or golden red-tailed catfish, belongs to the family Bagridae. Endemic to the state of Kerala in south-western India, this species is relatively common in the trade, reaching a maximum size of 45.0cm.
Aquarium Setup
To house the Sun Catfish, a minimum tank size of 648 litres is required. Setting up the aquarium involves providing dim lighting for its nocturnal nature and refuges such as bogwood, beech branches, large rocks, or plastic piping. A large and efficient biological filter is essential to manage the waste production.
Behaviour
Peaceful for its size, the Sun Catfish thrives in a community with other placid, similarly-sized fish. It may consume tankmates that fit in its mouth, making larger cyprinids, characins, big catfish, Arowana, Polypterus, Datnioides, and Cichla species suitable choices. They do not engage in conflicts with conspecifics and can be kept singly or in small groups.
Feeding and Diet
In nature, the Sun Catfish feeds on smaller fish, invertebrates, and plant matter. In captivity, they readily accept a varied diet including dried pellets, frozen prawns, mussels, and earthworms. Live feeder fish are not necessary for their diet.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
The reproduction habits of the Sun Catfish remain unrecorded in captivity. There is no information available regarding sexual dimorphism in this species.
Habitat and Distribution
Sun Catfish inhabit sluggish tributaries and backwaters in their endemic region of Kerala, India. They dwell in areas with a water hardness of 5-25°dH, a pH range of 6.0-7.5, and a temperature between 23-25°C.