Brachyplatystoma Vaillantii

Datasheet

General Description

Brachyplatystoma vaillantii, a species of the Pimelodidae family under the classification order Siluriformes, is known for its distinguishing external features, including a color pattern that gradually countershades along the flanks, a deeply-forked caudal fin in adults, and no caudal fin filaments in adults. It is a predominantly piscivorous fish species, preying on loricariids and other bottom-dwelling fishes in its natural habitat.

Aquarium Setup

For keeping Brachyplatystoma vaillantii in captivity, a tank size of at least 20,000 liters is recommended. The choice of tank decor is flexible, but a sandy substrate with large driftwood chunks or a bare setup are popular options. Ensuring water conditions within a pH range of 6.0-8.0, hardness between 18-357 ppm, and a temperature of 22-28°C is crucial. It is essential to have a substantial, efficient filtration system and maintain water quality consistently.

Behaviour

This species tends to be selective in tankmate choices and is best kept with larger species to avoid predation. Brachyplatystoma vaillantii exhibits migratory behavior in the wild, traveling through deep, flowing channels during specific times of the year. Movements are often associated with nutrient-rich white water drainages.

Feeding and Diet

In the wild, Brachyplatystoma vaillantii primarily feeds on piscivorous diet, preying on loricariids and bottom-dwelling fish. In captivity, they readily adapt to alternative food sources such as prawn, shrimp, mussels, and squid. Adults should be fed a single meal per week at most, and excessive daily feeding should be avoided.

Reproduction & Dimorphism

Reproduction of Brachyplatystoma vaillantii is not well-documented in captivity due to their complex natural life cycle. Sexual dimorphism in this species remains unknown, and there is limited information on their reproductive habits.

Habitat and Distribution

Native to South America, Brachyplatystoma vaillantii is found in the Amazon and Orinoco watersheds, including major tributaries and other fluvial systems in the Guianas and northeastern Brazil. They prefer deeper, flowing channels with nutrient-rich waters for migration and feeding activities. The species undertakes extensive migration during spawning, with evidence suggesting a preference for returning to the tributary of their birth for reproduction.