Pseudopimelodus Bufonius

Datasheet

General Description: The Giant Bumblebee Catfish, scientifically known as Pseudopimelodus bufonius, belongs to the Siluriformes order and Pseudopimelodidae family. This species can reach a maximum size of 24.5cm and is distributed across northeastern South America, from the Lake Maracaibo basin in Venezuela to eastern Brazil. Its etymology derives from the Ancient Greek words for 'false, lying, untrue' and the generic name Pimelodus, combined with 'toad-like' in Latin.

Aquarium Setup: To best recreate their natural habitat, aquarium setup for Giant Bumblebee Catfish should include a sandy substrate, plenty of hiding spots using driftwood or rocky caves, and plants. These fish prefer slightly acidic water with a temperature range between 72-79°F (22-26°C) and a pH of 6.0-7.5. They are best kept in small groups in large tanks to prevent aggression.

Behaviour: Giant Bumblebee Catfish are typically peaceful and prefer to hide during the day, becoming more active at night. They are bottom-dwellers, often sifting through the substrate for food. These catfish may exhibit territorial behavior towards their own species, especially during breeding.

Feeding and Diet: In the wild, these catfish are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of food sources. In captivity, they can be fed a diet of high-quality sinking pellets, live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped earthworms. A varied diet is essential to ensure their nutritional needs are met.

Reproduction & Dimorphism: Little is known about the specific breeding behavior of the Giant Bumblebee Catfish in aquarium settings. In their natural habitat, they are believed to be egg layers. Sexual dimorphism in this species is not prominent, making it challenging to visually differentiate between males and females without observing breeding behavior.

Habitat and Distribution: These catfish species are native to northeastern South America, ranging from the Lake Maracaibo basin in Venezuela to eastern Brazil. They inhabit freshwater bodies such as rivers and streams in areas with sandy substrates and ample hiding places among driftwood or rocks. The Giant Bumblebee Catfish can adapt to various water conditions within their native range, showcasing their hardy nature.