African Butter Catfish (Schilbe intermedius)
Fish in the family Schilbeidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameSchilbe intermedius
FamilySchilbeidae
Also known asSilver Catfish, Butter Barbel
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size14 in
Minimum tank size100 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-81°F, pH 6.5-7.8, GH 5-20 dGH
Appearance
Streamlined silvery body with long barbels, a long anal fin, and a forked tail built for constant swimming.
Difficulty and care for the African Butter Catfish
Moderate
Origin and habitat
Widespread across Africa
Keeper notes
Active open-water predatory schilbeid that eats small fish and shrimp; peaceful with larger tankmates. Grows substantial and is fast-moving.
Log African Butter Catfish in your reef tank
Reef Trak gives you the full record on every species in your tank: acquisition date, source, photos, parameters at time of stocking, and links to maintenance and feeding events. Track African Butter Catfish alongside everything else in your reef.
