Blue Whale Catfish (Cetopsis coecutiens)

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Blue Whale Catfish

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Blue Whale Catfish

Cetopsis coecutiens

284 Litres (75 US G.)

22.9-26.9cm (9-10.6 ")

sg

Freshwater

pH

6.0 - 7.4

22.2-26.1°C (72 -79 °F)

2-15 °d

1:1 M:F

Carnivore
Pellet Foods
Live Foods
Other (See article)

8-12 years

Family

Cetopsidae



Additional names

Baby Whale Catfish, Blue Shark Catfish, Blue Torpedo Catfish, Blue Whale Catfish, Whale Catfish

Additional scientific names

Silurus coecutiens


Origin[edit]

South America: Amazon, Tocantins, and Orinoco River basins.


Sexing[edit]

Males are slimmer than females and have a more pointed dorsal fin.


Tank compatibility[edit]

This fish does not play well with others and is best in a species tank. It will eat smaller fish and take chunks out of larger fish. It may possibly cohabit with armoured catfish provided they are both kept well fed.


Diet[edit]

This fish should accept most meaty foods and has a good appetite. A diet of foods such as shrimp, mussels, cockle, lancefish and earthworms is welcomed, live fish are not necessary. Some individuals may take some dry foods, but not all.


Feeding regime[edit]

Feed once or twice a day. This fish has a huge appetite so be careful not to overfeed.


Environment specifics[edit]

The Blue Whale Catfish prefers a laterally spacious tank with a good current flowing through it and good oxygenation, either with a filter breaking the surface or a powerhead. It is unfussy with décor, large rocks or bits of sturdy bogwood will suffice. It does not appreciate bright lighting, a dimly lit tank is best.


Behaviour[edit]

A large mid-swimming nocturnal predatory catfish. It is said these fish will shoal in the wild, but this has not really been seen in captivity.


Identification[edit]

This fish earns its common name well, the body is elongated and stream-lined with a very rounded head. The dorsal fin is relatively small and pointed and the eyes are small. It is silvery-blue in colour, paler on the belly.

Pictures[edit]

External links[edit]