Giraffe Catfish (Auchenoglanis occidentalis)
Fish in the family Claroteidae. Moderate care. Freshwater.
Quick facts
Scientific nameAuchenoglanis occidentalis
FamilyClaroteidae
Also known asGiraffe-Nosed Catfish, Occidentalis Catfish
Care levelModerate
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietomnivore
Adult size24 in
Minimum tank size240 gallons
Water parametersTemp 72-81°F, pH 6.5-7.8, GH 5-20 dGH
Appearance
Tan body with a bold dark giraffe-like reticulated pattern, a long snout, and small eyes; flattened belly for sifting sand.
Difficulty and care for the Giraffe Catfish
Moderate
Origin and habitat
Widespread across Africa
Keeper notes
Large, mostly peaceful sand-sifting catfish that eats small fish and shrimp but coexists with big tankmates. Needs a very large tank as it grows steadily.
Log Giraffe 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 Giraffe Catfish alongside everything else in your reef.
