Sturgeon Catfish
Lamontichthys filamentosus
A whip-finned Amazonian catfish whose fin filaments can outgrow its own body.
About
Found in the western Amazon River basin, this slender loricariid catfish, Lamontichthys filamentosus, is best known for the extraordinary filamentous extensions on its pectoral and dorsal fins. In adults over about two and a half inches, the pectoral-fin spine draws out into a thread-like filament that can exceed four times the length of the adjacent branched fin rays. Something no other member of its genus produces. The dorsal fin develops a similar elongated extension that, in larger specimens, can reach all the way back to the tail. These features, combined with a broad head and a semicircular lower lip lined with button-like papillae, make identification pretty straightforward once you know what to look for. In the aquarium, this is not a beginner's fish. It shows up in the trade often enough, but keeping it healthy long-term requires an experienced hand. Clean, well-oxygenated water and a setup that respects its sensitivity are non-negotiable. As an omnivore it will graze on biofilm and accept a range of prepared foods, which at least keeps feeding manageable. Give it space, stable conditions, and it can be a genuinely interesting catfish to work with.
Similar species
Other fish you might consider
Good tank mates
Species that tend to coexist peacefully with Sturgeon Catfish
From the same region
Share the same natural habitat. Great for a biotope-themed tank
Frequently asked questions
- How big does the Sturgeon Catfish get?
- The Sturgeon Catfish reaches about 4–6.5" as an adult.
- What size tank does the Sturgeon Catfish need?
- A minimum of 43 gallons is recommended for the Sturgeon Catfish.
- What water parameters does the Sturgeon Catfish need?
- The Sturgeon Catfish does best with a temperature of 68–82°F, a pH of 5.5–7.8, hardness around 2–12 dGH.
- Is the Sturgeon Catfish aggressive?
- The Sturgeon Catfish is generally peaceful and suits a community tank with similarly calm tankmates.
- What does the Sturgeon Catfish eat?
- The Sturgeon Catfish is an omnivore. It does well on a varied diet of quality flake or pellet plus occasional frozen or live foods.
- How long does the Sturgeon Catfish live?
- With good care, the Sturgeon Catfish typically lives 5-8 years.