Leopard Catfish (Perrunichthys perruno)

Fish in the family Pimelodidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Leopard Catfish

Quick facts

Scientific namePerrunichthys perruno
FamilyPimelodidae
Also known asReticulated Pim, Perruno Catfish
Care levelHard
Reef safetyFreshwater
TemperamentSemi Aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Adult size24 in
Minimum tank size300 gallons
Water parametersTemp 74-82°F, pH 6-7.5, GH 4-18 dGH

Appearance

Broad-headed catfish with a bold reticulated leopard-like pattern of dark blotches over a tan body.

Difficulty and care for the Leopard Catfish

Hard

Origin and habitat

Lake Maracaibo Basin, Venezuela

Keeper notes

Large nocturnal ambush predator; eats small fish and shrimp but peaceful toward big tankmates. Requires a very large system.

Log Leopard 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 Leopard Catfish alongside everything else in your reef.