Bolt Catfish
Siluriformes sp.
Bolt Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Catfish & Cory. Minimum tank in the app: 120 US gal min; aim for 72–81°F and pH 6–7.8. The Bolt Catfish is a captivating addition for aquarists seeking a distinctive bottom-dwelling species that thrives in spacious environments.

Captive lifespan reflects typical experience in a home aquarium, not maximum recorded age; genetics, sourcing, and care vary.
Natural distribution
Mostly South America / Africa
- South America
- Africa
Regional colours match the stocking calculator’s origin map.
Bolt Catfish Tank Setup
Create a spacious tank with plenty of hiding places using driftwood, rocks, and plants to mimic its natural habitat. A soft substrate is ideal for foraging, while moderate water flow supports its natural behavior. Lighting should be subdued to encourage exploration and comfort.
What Do Bolt Catfishs Eat?
Feeding occurs primarily at the bottom, so consider sinking pellets or wafers to match its feeding preferences. Competition for food is minimal, though introducing faster feeders can lead to missed meals.
Bolt Catfish Tank Mates
The Bolt Catfish pairs well with similarly sized, non-aggressive species that occupy different vertical zones, minimizing competition. Avoid smaller, overly active tank mates that might stress it, and ensure that tank mates are not fin-nippers, despite the Bolt Catfish's calm nature. Intraspecies interactions are generally peaceful, as they do not form shoals.
Are Bolt Catfishs Good for Beginners?
In App-aquatic we file this under easy care. That still means a cycled tank, realistic stocking, and parameters that do not swing every weekend. Many aquarists underestimate the need for a large tank and effective filtration, leading to poor water quality and stress. neglecting to provide sufficient hiding places can make the Bolt Catfish feel exposed, resulting in reduced activity and increased vulnerability to health issues.
Building a community? Run the full list through the stocking calculator before you add anything else.
Log tests and reminders in App-aquatic—free, same data you see here.




