Common Woodcat (Trachelyopterus galeatus)
Fish in the family Auchenipteridae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameTrachelyopterus galeatus
FamilyAuchenipteridae
Also known asDriftwood Catfish, Black Catfish, Parauchenipterus
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size8 in
Minimum tank size55 gallons
Water parametersTemp 73-82°F, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-18 dGH
Appearance
Mottled grey-brown body with a broad head, large mouth, and stout pectoral spines; cryptic camouflage pattern.
Difficulty and care for the Common Woodcat
Moderate
Origin and habitat
Amazon and Orinoco Basins, South America
Keeper notes
Nocturnal predatory woodcat that eats small fish and shrimp; peaceful toward larger tankmates. Largely hidden in wood by day.
Log Common Woodcat 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 Common Woodcat alongside everything else in your reef.