Our Guide To Keeping Striped Raphael Catfish

1. 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

2. 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.

3. 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).

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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.

7. 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.