Twig Catfish

Siluriformes sp.

Twig Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) — Easy care, Peaceful, under Catfish & Cory. Minimum tank in the app: 30 US gal min; aim for 75–81°F and pH 6–7.8. The Twig Catfish is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced aquarists, offering intriguing bottom-dwelling habits and a peaceful demeanor.

Twig Catfish (Siluriformes sp.) in a planted freshwater aquarium
Care levelEasy
TemperamentPeaceful
Min tank size30 US gal min
pH range6–7.8
Temperature75–81°F
Max size5.9 in (15.0 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.

Twig Catfish Tank Setup

Create a habitat that balances open swimming space with plenty of cover, such as driftwood and plants, to mimic their natural environment. Use fine substrate to facilitate foraging and maintain lower water flow to cater to their bottom-dwelling nature. Moderate, indirect lighting can help discourage stress and promote natural behaviors.

What Do Twig Catfishs Eat?

They exhibit slow feeding habits and may struggle against faster, more aggressive feeders. Offer a varied diet that includes sinking pellets, algae wafers, and occasional protein sources to maintain health and vibrancy.

Twig Catfish Tank Mates

Ideal tank mates include similarly sized peaceful species that occupy different water levels or zones to minimize competition. Avoid aggressive fish or those that may outcompete them for food. Intraspecies dynamics are non-confrontational, allowing for solitary living without the need for groups, though multiple individuals can coexist if space allows.

Are Twig 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 need for structured environments, leading to stress and inactivity in these fish. Overcrowding or mixing with overly aggressive species can also result in competition for food and space, ultimately compromising their health and wellbeing.

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.