Zebra Shovelnose Catfish (Brachyplatystoma juruense)

Fish in the family Pimelodidae. Hard care. Freshwater.

Quick facts

Scientific nameBrachyplatystoma juruense

FamilyPimelodidae

Also known asTiger Catfish, Gold Zebra Catfish

Care levelHard

Reef safetyFreshwater

TemperamentSemi-aggressive

DietCarnivore

Adult size24 in

Minimum tank size240 gallons

Water parametersTemp 75-82°F, pH 6.0-7.5, GH 4-16 dGH

Appearance

Streamlined grey body boldly marked with dark zebra-like bands and blotches, long sensory barbels, and a flattened shovel-shaped snout.

Difficulty and care for the Zebra Shovelnose Catfish

Hard

Origin and habitat

South America (Amazon basin)

Keeper notes

A large migratory predatory catfish that swallows fish and shrimp; peaceful with tankmates too large to eat but needs a huge footprint and open swimming room. Nervous and a strong jumper when startled.

Log Zebra Shovelnose 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 Zebra Shovelnose Catfish alongside everything else in your reef.

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