Ripsaw Catfish
NameRipsaw Catfish
Scientific NameOxydoras niger
Common NamesRipsaw Catfish, Black Talking Catfish, Mother of Snails Catfish, Kandiru
FamilyDoradidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)300
Max Size (Inches)40
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-79
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Cichlids, Arowana, Large Characins, Other Large Catfish
Description
The Ripsaw Catfish is a massive, armored freshwater fish characterized by its prominent bony scutes along the lateral line. Native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins, it is a bottom-dwelling species that sifts through substrate for food. Despite its imposing size, it is generally peaceful towards tankmates too large to be considered prey.
