Granulated Soldier Bacu Catfish Pterodoras Granulosus 10cm

Overview: The Granulated Soldier Bacu Catfish, also known as Pterodoras granulosus, is a large, armored catfish known for its tough, granulated skin and impressive size, reaching up to 24 inches (60 cm) in length. This robust species is a peaceful bottom-dweller, often admired for its resilience and unique appearance. It makes an excellent addition to large, well-maintained aquariums where its fascinating behavior can be observed.

Origin: This catfish is native to the slow-moving rivers, floodplains, and tributaries of South America, particularly within the Amazon and Paraná River basins. In the wild, it inhabits areas with dense vegetation and muddy substrates.

Feeding: The Granulated Soldier Bacu Catfish is an omnivorous scavenger, thriving on a varied diet of sinking pellets, wafers, and live or frozen foods such as earthworms, shrimp, and small fish. It will also consume vegetable matter, including blanched vegetables like zucchini and spinach.

Tank Mates: Due to its large size and peaceful nature, this catfish can be kept with other large, non-aggressive fish. Suitable tank mates include larger cichlids, other robust catfish species, and peaceful characins. Avoid housing it with small fish that could be mistaken for food.

Aggression: The Granulated Soldier Bacu Catfish is generally peaceful and non-aggressive, making it a good community fish for large aquariums. However, it can become territorial with other large bottom-dwellers, so providing ample hiding spots is essential.

Experience Level: Intermediate to Advanced. This species requires a large tank and specific care, making it more suitable for aquarists with experience in maintaining large, well-filtered aquariums.

Water Parameters: The ideal water conditions for the Granulated Soldier Bacu Catfish include a temperature range of 72-82°F (22-28°C), a pH of 6.0-7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. A spacious tank of at least 150 gallons is recommended, with plenty of hiding spots such as caves, driftwood, and rocks. Efficient filtration and regular water changes are crucial due to its size and potential bio-load.

In summary, the Granulated Soldier Bacu Catfish is a hardy and intriguing armored catfish that can be a standout in large, well-maintained aquariums. Its peaceful nature, impressive size, and unique appearance make it a fascinating choice for experienced aquarists.