The genus Pimelodus is quite specious and currently comprises 34 accepted species. Due to the lack of a recent revision it is not easy to identify the species. In the aquarium hobby only one species is of some importance: P. pictus, the angel catfish. One more species, P. ornatus, is a rare and highly demanded species for specialized aquarists. Several other species have been imported now and then but never became of any importance.But now we were able to import one more species from Venezuela that has at least the potential for an ornamental fish, for it is very attractive: Pimelodus tetramerus.
The species has been described in 2006 from Brazil. However, our fish fit perfectly to the description of the very characteristic coloration of P. tetramerus so there is only very little doubt left about the identity. P. tetramerus becomes about 20 cm long.
In contrast to many other species of catfish, Pimelodus are quite active during daytime. At least juveniles are strictly schooling fish, so one should buy at least 5, better 10 or more specimens. The catfish are completely peaceful against any tankmate. However, too small other fish will be eaten. Regarding feeding and the water parameters Pimelodus are completely undemanding and thus even beginners in the hobby can enjoy these beautiful fish.
For our customers: the animals have code 279002 on our stocklist. Please note that we exclusively supply the wholesale trade.
Lexicon: Pimelodus: from ancient Greek, means “the fatty”. tetramerus: from ancient Greek, means “devided in four parts”, referring to the pattern. pictus: Latin, means “painted”. ornatus: Latin, means “decorated”.
Suggestion of a common name: Silverstripe angel catfish
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
Literature: F. R. V. Ribeiro & C. A. S. de Lucena (2006): Nova espécie de Pimelodus (Siluriformes, Pimelodidae) dos rios Tapajós e Tocantins, Brasil. Iheringia, Ser. Zool., Porto Alegre 96 (3): 321-327
| Angaben zum Tier | |
|---|---|
| Herkunft | Venezuela |
| Verfügbare Größe in cm | 6-8 |
