Spotted Raphael Catfish

About

The Spotted Raphael Catfish (Agamyxis pectinifrons) is one of the more characterful members of the doradid family, a group sometimes called 'talking catfishes' because many species can produce audible sounds. This species does exactly that, generating a stridulating noise by moving its pectoral spines within their sockets. Something you'll notice quickly when netting or handling one. Speaking of netting: be careful, because those same spines and the rows of bony lateral scutes along the body can snag in mesh and draw blood. The coloration is a dark base with pale spots or bars that vary noticeably between individuals, ranging from white to a dull yellowish tone. In the wild this species is found throughout the Amazon River basin in South America. It's solidly peaceful in a community setting, though adults are large enough to treat very small tankmates as a meal. It does best alongside peaceful characins, other catfishes, or medium cichlids. Like most doradids it is strongly nocturnal, spending daylight hours tucked away and only becoming active after dark. Keeping a small group of four or more encourages more natural behavior, though it can be kept alone. With a lifespan that can stretch past fifteen years, this is the kind of fish you'll still be talking about long after your first tank.