Our Guide To Keeping Striped Raphael Catfish
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About Fish Species:
- Scientific name: Platydoras costatus
- Common name: Striped Raphael Catfish
- Family: Doradidae
- Origin: Amazon Basin in South America
- Adult length: 15 cm
- Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
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Tank Setup:
- Striped Raphael Catfish prefer a well-decorated tank with plenty of hiding spots. A minimum tank size of 100L is recommended for these nocturnal fish.
- Include driftwood, rocks, and caves to provide shelter and mimic their natural habitat. Soft, sandy substrate is ideal to prevent injury to their delicate barbels.
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Water Parameters:
- Striped Raphael Catfish thrive in slightly acidic to neutral water conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
- Keep the water temperature between 23 to 28°C (73 to 82°F).
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Filtration and Water Flow:
- A moderate water flow is suitable for these fish, so choose a filter that provides gentle to moderate flow to replicate their natural environment.
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Diet:
- Striped Raphael Catfish are omnivores and will accept a variety of foods. Offer them a balanced diet consisting of sinking pellets or wafers as a staple.
- Supplement their diet with live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and insect larvae to provide essential nutrients and mimic their natural diet.
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Tank mates:
- Striped Raphael Catfish are generally peaceful and can be kept with other non-aggressive fish species. Avoid keeping them with overly aggressive tank mates.
- Suitable tank mates include other peaceful catfish, larger tetras, and non-aggressive cichlids.
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Behavior and Compatibility:
- Striped Raphael Catfish are primarily nocturnal and will be most active during the night. They are shy and reclusive, spending much of their time hiding during the day.
- They are compatible with a variety of tank mates but should not be kept with fin-nipping or aggressive fish that may stress them.
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