Duckbill Catfish
Siluriformes sp.
Duckbill Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Catfish & Cory. Minimum tank in the app: 190 US gal min; aim for 73–86°F and pH 6–7.8. The Duckbill Catfish is ideal for aquarists seeking a peaceful bottom dweller that adds unique presence without aggressive tendencies.

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.
Duckbill Catfish Tank Setup
To accommodate the Duckbill Catfish, a spacious tank of at least 720 liters is essential, ideally with a mix of open swimming areas and hiding spots. Use a fine substrate to facilitate its bottom feeding behavior and incorporate driftwood and plants to create a complex habitat. Moderate water flow mimics its natural environment, while subdued lighting can help reduce stress and promote more natural behavior patterns.
What Do Duckbill Catfishs Eat?
The Duckbill Catfish is an omnivore with a preference for sinking foods, making it a versatile feeder. It competes minimally for food, but during feeding time, quicker species may outcompete it for surface offerings.
Duckbill Catfish Tank Mates
This catfish is compatible with similarly sized, non-aggressive species that occupy different tank levels, thus avoiding competition. Larger tetras, peaceful cichlids, and other bottom-dwellers can coexist well. Avoid pairing with fin-nippers or overly territorial fish, as the Duckbill's calm nature could lead to stress.
Are Duckbill 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 for the Duckbill Catfish, leading to water quality issues and reduced health. neglecting to create a structured environment can lead to stress and inactivity.
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.




