Striped Talking Catfish

The Striped Talking Catfish, scientifically known as Platydoras armatulus, is a unique and captivating species that adds both visual appeal and intriguing behaviour to any freshwater aquarium. Named for the distinctive "talking" or grunting noises they can produce using their pectoral fins, these catfish are known for their beautiful striped patterns, which run along their armoured bodies. Native to the slow-moving waters of the Amazon Basin, the Striped Talking Catfish is a peaceful and nocturnal species, making it an excellent addition to community tanks where it can coexist with a variety of other fish.

Key Features:

• Scientific Name: Platydoras armatulus
• Size: Typically grows up to 6-8 inches in length
• Diet: Omnivorous; enjoys a varied diet of high-quality sinking pellets, wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped earthworms
• Temperament: Peaceful; highly compatible with other non-aggressive fish, making them ideal for community tanks
• Habitat: Prefers tanks with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves, driftwood, and dense vegetation
• Care Level: Easy; suitable for aquarists of all experience levels

Why Choose Striped Talking Catfish?

The Striped Talking Catfish is a fascinating and hardy species that is perfect for aquarists looking to add something unique to their freshwater setup. Its striking black and white striped pattern adds visual interest to the tank, while its armoured body and peaceful temperament make it a durable and compatible choice for a wide range of community aquariums. One of the most intriguing aspects of this catfish is its ability to produce audible sounds, a behaviour that is sure to captivate anyone watching your tank. Its nocturnal habits mean it will be most active during the evening, providing a different perspective on your aquarium's ecosystem.

Care Tips:

• Water Parameters: Maintain stable water conditions with a temperature of 72°F - 79°F (22°C - 26°C), pH between 6.0 - 7.5, and soft to moderately hard water. Regular water changes and proper filtration are important to ensure a healthy environment for your Striped Talking Catfish.
• Feeding: The Striped Talking Catfish is an omnivore and should be provided with a balanced diet that includes high-quality sinking pellets, wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms, brine shrimp, and chopped earthworms. They also enjoy scavenging for leftover food, helping to keep the tank clean.
• Tank Setup: Provide a tank with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves, driftwood, and dense vegetation. These areas will give the catfish a place to retreat during the day and will make them feel secure. A sandy or smooth substrate is ideal to prevent injury to their sensitive barbels.
• Behaviour: As a nocturnal species, the Striped Talking Catfish is most active at night. Providing subdued lighting or creating shaded areas in the tank can encourage them to be more visible during the day.

Perfect for Community and Nocturnal Tanks:

The Striped Talking Catfish is an excellent choice for aquarists looking to add a peaceful, hardy, and unique species to their community tank. Their nocturnal nature and interesting behaviours make them a fascinating addition that adds depth to the aquarium's dynamics.

Order Your Striped Talking Catfish Today:

Add the beauty and intrigue of the Striped Talking Catfish to your freshwater aquarium. Browse our selection and place your order today to receive healthy, active fish that will thrive in your well-maintained aquatic environment.