Our Guide To Keeping Banjo Catfish

1. About Fish Species:

   • Scientific name: Bunocephalus coracoideus
   • Common name: Banjo Catfish
   • Family: Aspredinidae
   • Origin: Amazon Basin, South America
   • Adult length: 10-12 cm
   • Lifespan: 7 to 12 years

2. Tank Setup:

   • Banjo Catfish prefer a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding places such as caves, driftwood, and dense vegetation. A minimum tank size of 100L is recommended.
   • Provide a soft, sandy substrate to allow them to burrow, which mimics their natural habitat.

3. Water Parameters:

   • Banjo Catfish thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.2.
   • Keep the water temperature between 22 to 28°C (72 to 82°F).

4. Filtration and Water Flow:

   • A gentle water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides low to moderate flow.

5. Diet:

   • Banjo Catfish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of sinking pellets as a staple.
   • Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and tubifex worms to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.

6. Tank mates:

   • Banjo Catfish are peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish. They are compatible with small tetras, rasboras, and other peaceful bottom dwellers.
   • Avoid keeping them with large or aggressive fish that may see them as prey.

7. Behavior and Compatibility:

   • Banjo Catfish are nocturnal and spend most of their time hiding during the day. They are most active at night when they come out to feed.
   • They are generally solitary but can be kept in groups if the tank is spacious enough and has sufficient hiding spots.