Pim Pictus Catfish

The Pimelodus pictus, better known as the Pictus Catfish or Pim pictus, is a catfish native to South American rivers, particularly the Amazon and Orinoco basins. It is distinguished by its silver body adorned with black spots and its long whiskers (barbels) which it uses to explore its environment.

It is a peaceful fish, very active, especially in the evening and at night. It loves to swim constantly and needs a spacious aquarium with shaded areas, hiding places (roots, rocks, tubes) and good current.

Key information:

• Adult size: 10 to 15 cm in aquarium (up to 20 cm in the wild)

• Behavior: peaceful, gregarious (preferably in groups of 3 or more)

• Temperature: 22 to 28°C

• pH: 6.0 to 7.5

• GH: 2 to 15 °dGH

• Minimum aquarium size: 200 liters (preferably larger for multiple individuals)

• Diet: omnivorous — accepts pellets, frozen worms, shrimp, etc.

Warning: despite its gentle temperament, it can eat fish that are too small (such as neon tetras or shrimp) if they fit in its mouth. It should therefore not be kept with very small tankmates.