Granulated Catfish

About

The granulated catfish (Pterodoras granulosus) is a large, armored doradid from the river systems of South America, ranging across the Amazon and Paraná basins as well as coastal drainages in Guyana and Suriname. In the wild, adults gather in loose groups and are most active after dark, which is pretty typical for the doradid family. What sets this species apart is its diet. In nature it relies heavily on the fallen fruits of Astrocaryum palms, making it an unexpectedly specialized feeder for such a robust-looking fish. In the aquarium, it adapts to a broader omnivore diet, but offering plant-based foods and occasional fruit matter seems to keep them content. The body is covered in rows of bony lateral scutes that give the fish its granulated, rough-textured appearance, and adults can push toward two feet in length, which is not something to underestimate when planning a setup. This is a fish that genuinely needs a very large aquarium. We're talking serious footprint, not just a tall tank. They're peaceful toward tankmates they can't swallow, and their nocturnal habits mean you'll want plenty of cover and dim areas for them to feel secure during daylight hours. Intermediate experience is a fair rating, mostly because of the sheer space commitment involved.