Giraffe Catfish (Auchenoglanis occidentalis)
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Giraffe Catfish
Giraffe Catfish
Auchenoglanis occidentalis
1325 Litres (350 US G.)
55-70 cm (21.7-27.6")
Freshwater
6.5 - 7.8
21 -25 °C (69.8-77°F)
8-25 °d
1:1 M:F
8-18 years
Family
Claroteidae
Contents
Additional names
- Giraffe Catfish, Bubu, African Giraffe Bagrid
Additional scientific names
- Auchenaspis occidentalis, Auchenoglanis acuticeps, Auchenoglanis biscutatus occidentalis, Auchenoglanis occidentalis occidentalis, Auchenoglanis occidentalis tanganicanus, Auchenoglanis occidentalis tanganyikanus, Auchenoglanis occidentalis tchadensis, Auchenoglanis tchadensis, Auchenoglanis wittei, Oxyglanis sacchii, Pimelodus occidentalis, Auchenoglanis occidentalis occidentalis
Origin[edit]
- An African Catfish present in most rivers of West Africa, Lake Chad, the entire Congo River system, the Nile, East African lakes, and the rivers Omo and Giuba.
Sexing[edit]
- It is not possible to sex this fish visually, however, an egg-carrying mature female will appear broader in the abdomen.
Tank compatibility[edit]
- A peaceful fish towards tank mates and it's own species. It will, however, pose a threat to fry and small fish and any eggs tank mates may have laid.
Diet[edit]
- Will accept most foods including sinking pellets and wafers as well as blanched vegetables and live/frozen food such as bloodworm and brine shrimp.
Feeding regime[edit]
- Feed once or twice a day.
Environment specifics[edit]
- This fish grows large and needs an enormous tank with excellent filtration to match. They prefer soft acidic water and soft substrate. It does not appreciate very bright lighting and hiding places should be provided.
Behaviour[edit]
- A large, active, sociable and peaceful catfish.
Identification[edit]
- The Giraffe Catfish is large, elongate and tubular in shape with a long Loach-like nose. It has a reticulated patternation across the body which is creamy yellow in base colour and dark brown on top, resembling the markings of a Giraffe giving this fish it's common name.
- There are several sub-species of the Giraffe Catfish but they are virtually visually identical apart from the final adult size varies.
Pictures[edit]
External links[edit]
- Fishbase (Mirrors:
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