Platana Catfish
NamePlatana Catfish
Scientific NameMegalonema platanum
Common NamesPlatana Catfish, Megalonema Catfish
FamilyPimelodidae
OriginSouth America, Paraná-Paraguay River Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietcarnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)180
Max Size (Inches)16
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-79
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge South American Cichlids, Large Characins, Other similarly sized, robust catfishes
Description
The Platana Catfish, Megalonema platanum, is a large, predatory long-whiskered catfish from the Paraná-Paraguay River basin. It features a streamlined body, long barbels, and a silvery-brown coloration. This species requires a very large aquarium and a protein-rich diet.
