More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 80 litres / 21.13 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 20.0cm / 7.87inches |
| Temperature | 22°C / 71.60°F - 25°C / 77.00°F |
| Hardness | 4-25ºdH |
| pH | 6.0-8.0 |
General Description
Chaca chaca, commonly known as the Frogmouth Catfish, belongs to the Chacidae family. This species is popular among enthusiasts of unusual fish due to its resemblance to C. bankanensis, distinguishable by its lighter coloration and the presence of small hooklets on the lower lip and body. It is adept at camouflage and is also called the angler catfish, utilizing its barbels to lure prey by mimicking the movements of a worm.
Aquarium Setup
An 80-liter tank with soft, sandy substrate and dim lighting is ideal for C. chaca, which tends to bury itself. Plant options are limited, but java fern and java moss can thrive by being attached to decor. Mimicking its natural habitat, adding beech twigs and dried oak or beech leaves is recommended. Water conditions should be maintained at a temperature of 22-25°C, pH of 6.0-8.0, and hardness of 4-25°dH.
Behavior
Highly predatory, the Frogmouth Catfish is best kept solitary as it preys on fish that come near its mouth, swallowing items almost its size. While in large and deep aquariums it may coexist with fast-swimming surface-dwelling species, caution is advised. However, it can be housed with conspecifics without issues. Often motionless, it forages in darkness but may emit a grunting sound when handled.
Feeding and Diet
Young specimens of C. chaca may accept dried or frozen meaty foods but typically prefer live fare like small fish, river shrimp, and earthworms. Weaning onto alternate diets is challenging, as many individuals refuse anything other than live prey, reflecting their natural hunting behavior.
Reproduction & Dimorphism
Breeding C. chaca in captivity has been achieved, with males guarding eggs in tubing during a 3-day incubation period. Sexual dimorphism is evident, with males being longer and slimmer than females. After the incubation, the fry become free-swimming and likely fed small live foods post-hatching.
Habitat and Distribution
Chaca chaca is native to waters in India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Indonesia, where it inhabits both large and small, still or slow-moving bodies of water. Concealing itself amidst leaf litter and mulm, this species is adapted to blend into its environment for hunting and defense.