Ornate Pimelodus
NameOrnate Pimelodus
Scientific NamePimelodus ornatus
Common NamesOrnate Catfish, Gold Stripe Pimelodus
FamilyPimelodidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin, Guyana, Suriname, French Guiana
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)125
Max Size (Inches)18
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-79
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Cichlids (e.g., Oscar, Green Terror), Large Characins (e.g., Silver Dollars, Pacu), Large Loricariids (e.g., Plecos), Other large, robust catfish
Description
The Ornate Pimelodus is a large, striking South American catfish known for its distinctive gold and black striped pattern. This nocturnal predator requires a spacious aquarium with plenty of hiding spots and robust tankmates, as it will consume smaller fish.
