African Giraffe Catfish

<p><em>Auchenoglanis occidentalis occidentalis</em> has a life span of 8 to 18 years and the average adult is 27 inches. They have a yellow base color with dark brown on top, similar to a giraffe’s pattern, hence its common name. Due to its large size, a large aquarium with excellent filtration is a must. They prefer soft substrate and hiding places should be provided since this species doesn’t appreciate bright light. Since it is a peaceful and sociable species they can be kept in a community aquarium as long as their tankmates are larger than its mouth.</p>

<p>This species is omnivorous, it feeds on plankton, invertebrates and detritus. In an aquarium it can be fed with prepared foods, live foods or frozen foods.</p>

<p>It is not possible do determine sex just by looking, however, if a female is pregnant she will appear wider than the other individuals.</p>

<p>Nested eggs are guarded by the male parent. The male parent may also host the eggs and young of <em>Dinotopterus cunningtoni</em> which takes advantage of the already prepared nest. This is an example of interspecific brood care.</p>

<p>This species can be found throughout Africa’s lakes and large rivers that have shallow water and soft substrate.</p>

Venomous (Change Content)