Emerald Catfish
Siluriformes sp.
Emerald Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Catfish & Cory. Minimum tank in the app: 40 US gal min; aim for 70–82°F and pH 6–7.8. The Emerald Catfish is ideal for aquarists seeking a low-maintenance bottom dweller that enhances tank dynamics without aggression.

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.
Emerald Catfish Tank Setup
Create a balanced environment that combines open swimming space with plenty of hiding spots, such as driftwood and plants, to cater to their natural instincts. A soft substrate will facilitate their feeding behavior, while gentle water flow is preferable, mimicking their native habitats. Moderate lighting can enhance their colors without causing stress.
What Do Emerald Catfishs Eat?
They are bottom feeders with a moderate feeding speed, so providing a varied diet of sinking pellets, wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods is crucial. Monitor competition at feeding time, ensuring that faster or larger fish do not monopolize food resources, which could impact their health and coloration.
Emerald Catfish Tank Mates
Emerald Catfish are highly compatible with similarly sized and temperamental fish, making them excellent companions for peaceful community setups. Avoid pairing them with aggressive or overly boisterous species that may intimidate them. Intraspecies interactions are non-confrontational, allowing for solitary or small group placements without territorial disputes.
Are Emerald 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 substrate choice, leading to digestive issues if sharp materials are used. overcrowding can lead to stress and aggression, particularly in less structured environments.
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.




