Porthole Shovelnose Catfish

Overview:
 The Porthole Shovelnose Catfish, known for its sleek, elongated body and distinctive shovel-shaped snout, is a captivating addition to any large aquarium. These peaceful fish are nocturnal predators and exhibit unique hunting behavior, making them a fascinating species to observe.

Origin: 
Native to the slow-moving rivers and floodplains of South America, particularly the Amazon and Orinoco river basins, this catfish thrives in freshwater environments with dense vegetation.

Feeding: 
As a carnivorous species, Porthole Shovelnose Catfish prefer a diet of meaty foods, including live or frozen prey such as shrimp, small fish, and bloodworms. They may also accept high-quality carnivore pellets or sinking foods.

Tank Mates: 
Ideal tank mates include other large, peaceful fish that can handle the same water conditions, such as large tetras, peaceful cichlids, and other non-aggressive catfish. Avoid keeping them with small fish, as they may be mistaken for food.

Aggression: 
Generally non-aggressive, this catfish is peaceful towards similarly sized or larger tank mates. However, it may exhibit predatory behavior towards smaller fish.

Experience Level: 
Intermediate. Due to their size, predatory nature, and specific water requirements, the Porthole Shovelnose Catfish is best suited for aquarists with some experience in maintaining larger freshwater fish.

Water Parameters:

Temperature: 72-82°F (22-28°C)

pH: 6.0-7.5

Hardness: 2-15 dGH

Tank Size: Minimum 100 gallons due to their potential size (up to 18 inches)