More info
Datasheet
| Minimum Tank Size | 10000 litres / 2641.72 US gallons |
| Maximum Size | 100.0cm / 39.37inches |
| Temperature | 18°C / 64.40°F - 23°C / 73.40°F |
| Hardness | 2.02dgH / 36ppm - 12.05dgH / 215ppm |
| pH | 6.0-7.5 |
General Description:
Bagarius rutilus is a species that is uncommon in the aquarium trade due to its large size and natural behavior, making it unsuitable for typical home aquariums. It can be distinguished from similar species by specific physical characteristics such as tubercles covering the cranium and interneural, elliptical eyes, and orange fins when alive. It belongs to the genus Bagarius, which is unique in the Sisoridae subfamily due to its markedly heterodont teeth in the lower jaw.
Aquarium Setup:
The proper setup for B. rutilus includes dim lighting and the provision of refuges such as driftwood, large rocks, or plastic piping for the fish. A large tank of at least 10,000 liters, a mature filtration system, and regular water changes of 50-70% tank volume are essential. Highly-oxygenated water with significant movement is recommended for their well-being.
Behaviour:
This species is best kept alone in aquariums due to its behavior. In the wild, B. rutilus is found in large river channels, preferring fast-flowing, turbulent rapids where it seeks shelter among boulders and rocks. During the breeding season, adults undertake spawning migrations and exhibit protective behavior towards their eggs.
Feeding and Diet:
Bagarius rutilus is an obligate predator, preying on smaller fishes, amphibians, crustaceans, and invertebrates in its natural habitat. In captivity, they adapt well to dead food alternatives. Young fish can be fed chironomid larvae, earthworms, and chopped prawns, while adults can be offered fish flesh, prawns, mussels, and larger earthworms. It is crucial not to feed them mammalian or avian meat, feeder fish, or unconditioned live fish due to nutritional and health concerns.
Reproduction & Dimorphism:
Reproduction of B. rutilus has not been recorded in aquaria. In the wild, adults deposit adhesive and relatively large eggs in rocky crevices. They exhibit broodcare behavior by guarding the eggs from potential predators during the incubation period.
Habitat and Distribution:
The species is known to inhabit the Red River in northern Vietnam, Yunnan province in southern China, as well as several rivers in Vietnam (Thái Bình, Sông Kỳ Cùng, Mã, and Lam rivers), and possibly in Laos (Nam Xam and Nam Ma drainages). Their natural habitat includes large river channels with rapid currents, especially during the spawning season when they migrate to breeding grounds.