Pictus Catfish Care Guide
Pimelodus pictus
Stocking Calculator
Bioload Score
9000
- Max Size
- 15.0 cm / 6.0"
- Temperature
- 22–28°C (72–82°F)
- pH Range
- 6.5 – 7.5
- Min Tank Size
- 284L (75 gal)
- Min Group Size
- 3 fish
- Tank Level
- Bottom
- Origin
- South America
- Temperament
- Semi-Aggressive
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Breeding Difficulty
- Difficult
Diet
Carnivorous, primarily feeds on live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, blackworms, and small fish. They may also accept high-quality sinking pellets or freeze-dried foods.
Community Compatibility
Pictus Catfish can coexist with larger, peaceful fish that can handle their active and sometimes boisterous nature. Suitable tank mates include larger Tetras, peaceful Cichlids, larger Rasboras, and other similarly sized catfish species.
Good to Know
Pictus Catfish are known for their sharp pectoral and dorsal spines, so caution should be exercised when handling them. They are also active swimmers and require a well-maintained tank with ample hiding places, strong filtration, and regular water changes.
Gender Differences
Females are typically larger and rounder-bodied than males, especially when viewed from above.
Stock Pictus Catfish in Your Tank
Use our free stocking calculator to see if Pictus Catfish fits your aquarium