Spotted Raphael Catfish
Siluriformes sp.
Spotted Raphael Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Catfish & Cory. Minimum tank in the app: 40 US gal min; aim for 72–79°F and pH 6–7.8. The Spotted Raphael Catfish is an ideal choice for those seeking a resilient bottom-dweller that adds a unique visual element to the tank.

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.
Spotted Raphael Catfish Tank Setup
Create a balanced habitat with plenty of hiding spaces, such as caves or driftwood, to mimic their natural environment. A soft substrate is essential for their comfort, and moderate water flow is preferable. Lighting should be subdued to avoid stressing them, allowing them to feel secure while they forage.
What Do Spotted Raphael Catfishs Eat?
While they are omnivorous bottom feeders, Spotted Raphael Catfish are not the fastest eaters, which can lead to competition issues if housed with quicker feeders. Ensure a varied diet including sinking pellets and occasional treats like vegetables to promote health and enhance their colors.
Spotted Raphael Catfish Tank Mates
Ideal tank mates include similar-sized peaceful species like tetras or rasboras, which occupy different swimming zones. Avoid aggressive or overly boisterous fish that may outcompete them for food. Intraspecies interactions are generally non-confrontational, as they do not form shoals, but providing multiple hiding spots can reduce any minor territorial disputes.
Are Spotted Raphael 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 bioload this species contributes, leading to water quality issues. a lack of hiding spots can stress the fish, prompting them to hide excessively, impacting their health and activity levels.
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.




