Velvet Catfish
NameVelvet Catfish
Scientific NameHeteropneustes fossilis
Common NamesStinging Catfish, Fossil Catfish, Airsac Catfish, Indian Catfish
FamilyHeteropneustidae
OriginSouth Asia, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Pakistan, Thailand, Laos
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)40
Max Size (Inches)12
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-82
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Gouramis, Large Barbs, Synodontis Catfish, Larger Rainbowfish, Robust Cichlids (non-aggressive species)
Description
The Velvet Catfish (*Heteropneustes fossilis*) is an elongated, air-breathing catfish native to South Asia. Known for its smooth, dark body and venomous pectoral fin spines, it is a hardy and predatory species. It requires a spacious tank with plenty of hiding spots and is best kept with similarly sized or larger, robust tankmates.
