Hyalobagrus Flavus

Datasheet

General Description

The Shadow Catfish, scientifically known as Hyalobagrus Flavus, is a diurnal and peaceful species of catfish native to parts of Indonesia. Belonging to the Bagridae family, this catfish is distinct in its behavior of swimming in midwater shoals, unlike many other catfish species. With a maximum size of 4.5cm, it is well-suited for community tanks due to its peaceful nature.

Aquarium Setup

For optimal care, the Shadow Catfish thrives in soft, acidic water conditions with a pH range of 5.5-7.0 and a temperature between 21-26°C. A minimum tank size of 40 litres is recommended. Providing dense planting, floating vegetation for light diffusion, driftwood, and smooth rocks in the aquarium creates a favorable environment. Water movement should be minimal, and efficient filtration coupled with regular maintenance is essential to maintain good water quality.

Behaviour

This species of catfish is very peaceful and sociable, thriving best when kept in shoals of at least six individuals. Shadow Catfish tends to ignore tankmates, making it suitable for communities of small to medium-sized, peaceful fish species. They are known to interact well with rasboras, danios, and small loaches, and exhibit a diurnal behavior, often swimming in midwater shoals.

Feeding and Diet

The diet of the Shadow Catfish should consist mainly of small frozen and live foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. While they may accept dried foods, it is essential to supplement their diet with frozen and live foods for them to develop and maintain optimal health conditions.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Although breeding in captivity is not common, Shadow Catfish are likely to breed successfully in soft, acidic, and tannin-stained water conditions. Female catfish display noticeable gravid green eggs through their transparent bodies when ready to breed. Males can be differentiated by a small genital papilla near the anal fin and a less rounded belly compared to females.

Habitat and Distribution

In the wild, the Shadow Catfish inhabits riverine areas in the Batang Hari drainage in Sumatra and the Mentaya Basin in Borneo. Typically found in blackwater habitats with acidic conditions, the species often forms large shoals, seeking cover under floating vegetation or among submerged grasses.