Silver dolphin catfish

About

Found in the middle and upper Amazon River basin, Ageneiosus atronasus is a small member of the driftwood catfish group that punches a little above its weight as a predator. In the wild it feeds on small invertebrates and fish, so tankmates should be chosen with that appetite in mind. Anything small enough to fit in its mouth is a potential meal. That said, its modest adult size puts it within reach of a reasonably sized freshwater aquarium, and its care demands are forgiving enough for less experienced keepers who do their homework on stocking. Like many South American catfish, it appreciates soft, slightly acidic water that mirrors the tannin-stained rivers it calls home, though it tolerates a fairly broad pH range. In the wild, spawning activity runs from around late October through to the end of March, which suggests a seasonal cycle tied to Amazonian flood rhythms. Something to keep in mind if you ever try breeding this species. It is not a fish you see offered particularly often in the hobby, which is a shame, because its streamlined shape and active, predatory personality make it a genuinely interesting oddball for the right setup.