How to Care for Freshwater Catfish and Avoid Common Mistakes

Freshwater catfish might look like the chillest fish in the tank, but beneath their cool exterior lies a world of specific needs and quirky behaviours. From their stealthy bottom-feeding habits to their role as the tank’s clean-up crew, catfish bring life to your aquarium—if you know how to care for them right. Let’s dive in and make sure your catfish care game is on point.

Create a Tank That Screams “Catfish Paradise”

Think of your tank as your catfish’s ultimate dream home. You’re not just setting up a box of water; you’re creating an underwater mansion. Here’s how to get it right:

• Tank Size Matters: Picture this—a Pleco trying to do laps in a tiny bowl. Not cool, right? Small species can thrive in 80 litres, but the big boys need at least 200 litres to stretch their fins
• Perfect Substrate and Decor: Catfish use their sensitive barbels to explore the tank’s bottom. Sharp gravel? That’s like walking barefoot on Lego bricks. Go for soft sand and add driftwood, caves, and plants to create a cosy, catfish-approved vibe.
• Water Quality Goals: Keep the temperature at a comfy 22-26°C with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Remember, happy water equals happy fish.

Need help with the setup? Swing by Hurstville Aquarium for tanks, substrates, and everything you need to make your catfish’s dreams come true.

Feed Them Like the Royalty They Are

Imagine being served the same meal scraps every day. Boring, right? Your catfish deserve better. Here’s what’s on their gourmet menu:

• Sinking Pellets: Perfect for their bottom-feeding style.
• Frozen Delights: Bloodworms and brine shrimp are like their version of chocolate.
• Veggie Time: Treat them to zucchini, cucumber, and spinach slices. You’ll feel like a top chef.

Feed them just enough to finish within a few minutes and keep leftovers from gunking up the tank. Grab premium fish food from Hurstville Aquarium and make your catfish’s day.

Tankmates: Friends, Not Foes

Your catfish are peaceful little legends, but not every fish deserves a spot in their inner circle. Here’s how to choose wisely:

• Chill Companions: Tetras, barbs, and gouramis make great mates.
• No Bullies Allowed: Aggressive fish are a big no-no.
• Size Check: Make sure no one’s small enough to end up on the menu.

Not sure who’ll get along? The friendly crew at Hurstville Aquarium has your back.

Keep Water Clean, or Risk the Wrath of the Catfish

Okay, maybe not wrath, but neglecting water quality is a surefire way to upset your aquatic buddies. Here’s what to watch:

• Ammonia and Nitrite Levels: Keep them at zero. Anything higher is toxic.
• Nitrates: Keep these below 20 ppm with regular water changes.
• Filtration: A high-quality filter is like a superhero cape for your tank.

Not sure where to start? Pick up a water testing kit from Hurstville Aquarium and keep your tank in tip-top shape.

Oops! Avoid These Rookie Mistakes

We all make mistakes, but some are totally avoidable. Don’t fall into these traps:

• Overcrowding: Your tank isn’t a fishy nightclub. Keep it spacious.
• Skipping Quarantine: New fish without quarantine? That’s how you throw a disease party.
• Ignoring Water Changes: Procrastination here equals unhappy fish.
• Sharp Decorations: These are barbels’ worst nightmare.

Learn from these missteps and keep your catfish living their best lives.

What a Healthy Catfish Looks Like

Want to know if your catfish is thriving? Here’s what to look for:

• Smooth skin and clear eyes
• Active behaviour and eager feeding
• No clamped fins or erratic swimming

Spotted an issue? The experts at Hurstville Aquarium can help you troubleshoot.

Breeding Freshwater Catfish

Breeding catfish can be one of the most rewarding parts of keeping these fascinating fish. Here’s how you can help them feel comfortable enough to spawn:

• Create a Romantic Setting: Provide plenty of hiding spots like caves and plants. Many species, like Corydoras, prefer to spawn on smooth surfaces.
• Diet Boost: Amp up their diet with live or frozen foods to stimulate breeding.
• Mimic Rainy Seasons: Some species respond well to cooler water changes that replicate their natural breeding triggers.

Successful breeding takes patience, but seeing tiny catfish fry in your tank makes it all worth it. Visit Hurstville Aquarium for breeding supplies and tips tailored to your species.

The Secret Lives of Catfish

Did you know catfish are more than just bottom dwellers? They have incredible adaptations that make them stand out:

• Barbels: These whisker-like structures help them sense food and navigate in low visibility.
• Nocturnal Nature: Many species are most active at night, making them fascinating to observe after dark.
• Variety Galore: With over 3,000 species, there’s a catfish for every aquarist, from the tiny Otocinclus to the massive Redtail.

Discover your next favourite species at Hurstville Aquarium—we stock a wide variety of catfish to suit every tank setup.

Bottom Line

Freshwater catfish are more than just tank cleaners—they’re fascinating creatures that deserve your care and attention. With the right tank setup, balanced diet, and a little love, you can create an environment where they thrive. Avoid common pitfalls, and you’ll be rewarded with their unique personalities and peaceful presence. Your efforts don’t just keep them alive—they make your tank the envy of all aquarists.

Contact Us at Hurstville Aquarium

Thinking about adding some whiskered charm to your tank? Let Hurstville Aquarium be your go-to for expert advice, high-quality supplies, and everything you need to ace catfish care. Visit us today, or give us a call to start your journey into the wonderful world of freshwater catfish!