Widehead Catfish
NameWidehead Catfish
Scientific NamePimelodus blochii
Common NamesWidehead Catfish, Bloch's Catfish, Four-barred Pimelodid
FamilyPimelodidae
OriginSouth America, Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin, Guianas
Temperamentsemi-aggressive
Dietomnivore
Care Levelintermediate
Minimum Tank Size (Gallons)75
Max Size (Inches)14
Water TypeFreshwater
Temperature Range (°F)72-79
pH Range6.0-7.5
Compatible SpeciesLarge Cichlids (e.g., Severums, Geophagus), Large Characins (e.g., Silver Dollars, larger Tetras), Other large, peaceful Catfish (e.g., Plecos, Synodontis), Dovii Cichlid
Description
The Widehead Catfish is a robust, nocturnal species characterized by its broad head, silvery body, and long sensory barbels. It is a predatory fish that can grow quite large, requiring a spacious aquarium and careful selection of tankmates. This species is known for its active foraging behavior, especially during the night.
