Aquaria
African Butter Catfish

African Butter Catfish

NameAfrican Butter Catfish
Scientific NameSchilbe depressirostris
Common NamesAfrican Butter Catfish, Butter Catfish, Deba Catfish, Silver Butter Catfish
FamilySchilbeidae
OriginAfrica, Nile River, Niger River, Volta River, Lake Chad Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)120
Max Size (Inches)16
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge African Cichlids, Larger Synodontis Catfish, Large Characins, Other large, robust, non-aggressive fish

Description

The African Butter Catfish is a large, schooling, predatory freshwater catfish native to various river systems across Africa. It has a silvery body, a flattened snout, and long barbels, making it an active and striking addition to a large, species-appropriate aquarium. They are known for their swift movements and can be semi-aggressive towards smaller tankmates.

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