Aquaria
Lake Tanganyika Catfish

Lake Tanganyika Catfish

Image: Moore, John Edward S (No restrictions)

NameLake Tanganyika Catfish
Scientific NameChrysichthys brachynema
Common NamesLake Tanganyika Catfish, Brachynema Catfish
FamilyClaroteidae
OriginEast Africa, Lake Tanganyika
Temperamentcommunity
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)120
Max Size (Inches)20
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)75-82
pH Range7.8-9.0
Compatible SpeciesCyphotilapia frontosa, Altolamprologus compressiceps, Neolamprologus leleupi, Other large Tanganyikan cichlids

Description

Chrysichthys brachynema is a large, predatory catfish endemic to Lake Tanganyika in East Africa. It is characterized by its elongated body, large head, and prominent barbels, adapted for life in the deep waters of the lake. This species requires a spacious aquarium with stable, hard, and alkaline water conditions.

Related Fish species