Firewood Catfish
NameFirewood Catfish
Scientific NameSorubim lima
Common NamesFirewood Catfish, Shovel-nosed Catfish, Duckbill Catfish
FamilyPimelodidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin, Paraná Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)24
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-80
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesOscar Cichlid, Green Terror Cichlid, Jaguar Cichlid, Large Plecos, Arowana, Other large, robust South American cichlids
Description
The Firewood Catfish is a large, predatory South American catfish characterized by its distinctive flattened, shovel-like snout and mottled brown and cream coloration. It is a nocturnal hunter that requires a very spacious aquarium due to its significant adult size. While generally peaceful with tankmates too large to be eaten, it will consume smaller fish.
