Bottlenose Catfish

Siluriformes sp.

Bottlenose Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Catfish & Cory. Minimum tank in the app: 95 US gal min; aim for 72–79°F and pH 6–7.8. The Bottlenose Catfish is an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a low-maintenance bottom dweller with a unique appearance and personality.

Bottlenose Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelEasy
TemperamentPeaceful
Min tank size95 US gal min
pH range6–7.8
Temperature72–79°F
Max size7.9 in (20.0 cm)
Captive lifespan8–16 years
SchoolingNo

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.

Bottlenose Catfish Tank Setup

To create an ideal environment, focus on a spacious layout that combines open swimming areas with ample hiding spots using caves and driftwood. A soft substrate is preferable to protect their sensitive barbels, and moderate lighting can help them feel secure while still allowing for visual exploration. Ensure efficient filtration to manage the waste generated by this species.

What Do Bottlenose Catfishs Eat?

These omnivorous fish feed at a slower pace, often sifting through substrate for food. It’s essential to provide a varied diet that includes sinking pellets, frozen foods, and occasional plant matter to maintain their health and coloration.

Bottlenose Catfish Tank Mates

The Bottlenose Catfish thrives with similarly sized, non-aggressive species that occupy different swimming zones, such as tetras or rasboras. Avoid small or overly aggressive fish, as they may stress the catfish. Given its peaceful nature, cohabitation with other bottom-dwellers is possible, but ensure they have enough space to avoid competition.

Are Bottlenose 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. Aquarists often underestimate the importance of tank size and filtration, leading to poor water quality and stress. Another common error is neglecting to provide enough hiding spots, which can cause anxiety in these solitary fish.

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.