Andean Pencil Catfish
NameAndean Pencil Catfish
Scientific NameTrichomycterus rivulatus
Common NamesAndean Pencil Catfish, Mountain Catfish, Torpedo Catfish
FamilyTrichomycteridae
OriginSouth America, Andes Mountains, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)30
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)60-72
pH Range6.5-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarger peaceful characins, Other peaceful, cool-water bottom dwellers of similar size, Species-only tank
Description
The Andean Pencil Catfish is a slender, elongated catfish native to the cool, fast-flowing mountain streams of the Andes. They are typically mottled brown or grey, providing excellent camouflage. These nocturnal bottom-dwellers require highly oxygenated water and can be predatory towards very small fish or invertebrates.
