Collection: Catfish

 L002 Tiger Pleco (Panaqolus sp.)

The L002 Tiger Pleco, also known as the Tiger Peckoltia, is a striking freshwater fish featuring bold tiger-like stripes and a unique body shape. This peaceful and hardy pleco is an excellent choice for aquarists looking for a visually stunning yet low-maintenance addition to their aquarium. Its manageable size and calm demeanor make it ideal for a variety of tank setups.

Product Details

• Species: Panaqolus sp.
• Common Names: L002 Tiger Pleco, Tiger Peckoltia
• Origin: South America (Rio Xingu Basin, Brazil)
• Diet: Omnivore (wood-eating tendencies)
• Maximum Size: 12 cm (4.5 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Moderate

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
The L002 Tiger Pleco thrives in tanks with a minimum capacity of 100 liters. Provide a soft substrate, driftwood for grazing, and hiding spots using rocks or caves. These plecos are shy and appreciate low lighting and plenty of shaded areas to feel secure. A well-oxygenated tank with moderate water flow mimics their natural riverine habitat.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: 2 – 12 dGH
  Stable water conditions with effective filtration and regular water changes are crucial for the health of the L002 Tiger Pleco.

Diet:
The L002 Tiger Pleco is an omnivore with a preference for grazing on driftwood, algae, and biofilm. Offer a varied diet of sinking pleco-specific wafers, algae tablets, and fresh vegetables like zucchini and cucumber. Occasionally, supplement with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp to meet their protein requirements.

Behavior and Compatibility:
This peaceful species is an excellent addition to community aquariums. They coexist well with small to medium-sized non-aggressive tankmates, including tetras, rasboras, and corydoras. Avoid housing them with overly territorial species or other plecos that may compete for space or food.

Growth and Maintenance:

The L002 Tiger Pleco grows to a manageable size of up to 12 cm and has a lifespan of 10–15 years with proper care. Their slow growth rate and moderate maintenance needs make them suitable for aquarists who can provide a stable and well-structured environment. Regular cleaning of driftwood and maintaining clean substrate conditions are essential.

Availability:
The L002 Tiger Pleco (Panaqolus sp.) is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and add this beautifully patterned pleco to your aquarium today!

Borneo Sucker (Pseudogastromyzon myersi)

The Borneo Sucker (Pseudogastromyzon myersi), also known as the Chinese Hillstream Loach;  is a unique and fascinating freshwater fish native to the streams and rivers of Borneo. Known for its specialized sucker-like mouth, this species is an excellent algae eater and a peaceful addition to a variety of freshwater aquariums. With its small size and attractive coloration, it makes an ideal companion for tanks with live plants and other peaceful species.

Product Details

• Species: Pseudogastromyzon myersi
• Common Names: Borneo Sucker, Borneo Loach, Chinese Hillstream Loach
• Origin: Borneo (Southeast Asia)
• Light Requirements: Low to moderate
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C
• Maximum Size: 6 cm (2.4 inches)
• Diet: Omnivorous, primarily algae
• Reef Safe: No (freshwater species)
• Available Size: Small

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
The Borneo Sucker thrives in aquariums with slow-moving waters, plenty of hiding spaces, and a nutrient-rich substrate. Live plants, rocks, and driftwood provide ideal environments for this species to explore and graze. It is best kept in aquariums with other peaceful species, avoiding larger or aggressive fish that may outcompete it for food.

Water Parameters:
Maintain a pH range of 6.0 – 7.5, with stable water temperatures between 22°C and 28°C. A specific gravity of 1.000 – 1.005 is ideal. As an algae-eating species, regular water changes, proper filtration, and good water quality are essential to its well-being.

Diet:
The Borneo Sucker feeds mainly on algae, making it an excellent choice for maintaining clean aquarium glass and surfaces. It may also accept sinking pellets, wafers, and other vegetable-based foods. Supplement its diet with occasional live foods, such as small worms or crustaceans, to maintain optimal health.

Behavior and Maintenance:
This peaceful fish enjoys spending most of its time grazing on algae and exploring the substrate. It is non-aggressive and can be kept with a variety of other peaceful freshwater species. Regular water changes and maintenance of a clean tank will help ensure that the Borneo Sucker remains healthy.

Compatibility:

The Borneo Sucker is best kept in community tanks with other peaceful species such as tetras, guppies, and corydoras. It thrives in tanks with live plants, which provide it with the environment it needs for grazing. Avoid placing it with aggressive or larger fish that might stress it.

Availability:
The Borneo Sucker (Pseudogastromyzon myersi) is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and add this fascinating and helpful fish to your aquarium today!

Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata)

The Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) is a hardy and peaceful freshwater fish known for its armored body and active bottom-dwelling behavior. With its distinctive appearance and engaging personality, the Hoplo Catfish is a popular choice for community aquariums. This versatile and low-maintenance species is perfect for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Product Details

• Species: Megalechis thoracata
• Common Names: Hoplo Catfish, Armored Catfish
• Origin: South America (Amazon and Orinoco River basins)
• Diet: Omnivore
• Maximum Size: 15 cm (6 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Easy

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
Hoplo Catfish thrive in aquariums with a minimum capacity of 120 liters. Provide a sandy or smooth gravel substrate to protect their delicate barbels, along with plenty of hiding spots using driftwood, rocks, and aquatic plants. These active bottom-dwellers appreciate open swimming areas and dim lighting to mimic their natural habitat.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: 2 – 15 dGH
  Maintain stable water conditions with good filtration and regular water changes to ensure the health of the Hoplo Catfish.

Diet:
The Hoplo Catfish is an omnivore that readily accepts a variety of foods. Provide a balanced diet of sinking pellets, wafers, and live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They will also scavenge leftover food from other tank inhabitants, helping to keep the substrate clean.

Behavior and Compatibility:
This peaceful and sociable species is best kept in groups of three or more. They are compatible with a wide range of community fish, including tetras, guppies, corydoras, and gouramis. Avoid housing them with aggressive or territorial species that may outcompete them for food or stress them out.

Growth and Maintenance:

Hoplo Catfish can grow up to 15 cm in length and have a lifespan of up to 10 years with proper care. Their armored bodies make them resilient to minor injuries, and their hardy nature ensures they adapt well to most freshwater aquariums. Regular substrate cleaning and monitoring water quality are essential to maintain their health.

Availability:
The Hoplo Catfish (Megalechis thoracata) is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and introduce this engaging and durable bottom-dweller to your freshwater aquarium today!

Long-Nosed Whiptail (Sturisoma barbatum)

The Long-Nosed Whiptail (Sturisoma barbatum) is an elegant and distinctive freshwater catfish, known for its slender body, elongated snout, and graceful, flowing fins. Native to the rivers of South America, this peaceful bottom-dweller is an excellent addition to community aquariums. Its unique appearance and algae-grazing habits make it both functional and decorative.

Product Details

• Species: Sturisoma barbatum
• Common Names: Long-Nosed Whiptail, Whiptail Catfish
• Origin: South America (Amazon and Orinoco River Basins)
• Diet: Omnivore (primarily algae and plant matter)
• Maximum Size: 18–20 cm (7–8 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Moderate

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
The Long-Nosed Whiptail thrives in aquariums of 120 liters or more, with a soft substrate to protect its delicate body. Provide plenty of driftwood, rocks, and plants for grazing and hiding. Moderate water flow and excellent filtration are essential to replicate its natural riverine habitat.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (2 – 15 dGH)
  Maintain stable water conditions with regular water changes to ensure optimal health for this species.

Diet:
The Long-Nosed Whiptail primarily grazes on algae and biofilm, but it also requires supplemental feeding. Offer sinking algae wafers, spirulina tablets, and blanched vegetables such as zucchini and spinach. Occasional protein-rich foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp can be provided to ensure a balanced diet.

Behavior and Compatibility:
This peaceful fish is an excellent addition to community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tankmates include tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and small cichlids. Avoid housing with aggressive or large predatory fish that may intimidate or outcompete the Whiptail for food.

Growth and Maintenance:

The Long-Nosed Whiptail can grow up to 18–20 cm and has a lifespan of up to 10 years with proper care. Its slender body and extended fins make it a striking feature in the aquarium. Regular tank maintenance, including substrate cleaning and monitoring water quality, is essential for its long-term health.

Availability:
The Long-Nosed Whiptail (Sturisoma barbatum) is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and add this elegant and fascinating fish to your aquarium today!

Albino Bristlenose Catfish (Ancistrus sp.)

The Albino Bristlenose Catfish is a peaceful, hardy bottom-dweller known for its pale coloration and unique bristle-like structures on its face. As a prolific algae eater, it is a favorite among aquarists for maintaining tank cleanliness while adding a unique aesthetic to freshwater aquariums.

Product Details

• Species: Ancistrus sp.
• Common Names: Albino Bristlenose Pleco, Albino Bristlenose Catfish
• Origin: South America (Amazon Basin)
• Diet: Herbivorous
• pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5
• Temperature: 22°C – 27°C
• Maximum Size: Up to 15 cm (6 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Available Size: Juvenile 4–6 cm

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
A tank size of at least 80 liters is recommended for the Albino Bristlenose Catfish. Provide a well-decorated environment with driftwood, caves, and plants, as they enjoy hiding and grazing on surfaces. A soft substrate is preferred to protect their delicate barbels while foraging.

Water Parameters:
Maintain a stable pH between 6.5 and 7.5 with a temperature range of 22°C to 27°C. Regular water changes and proper filtration are essential for their health and the prevention of algae buildup.

Diet:
Albino Bristlenose Catfish are primarily herbivores and thrive on a diet of algae wafers, sinking pellets, and fresh vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. Occasional protein-based treats like bloodworms can be offered but should not be a dietary staple.

Behavior and Compatibility:
These catfish are peaceful and compatible with a wide variety of community tank mates, including tetras, gouramis, and other small, non-aggressive fish. They are excellent for tanks with live plants, as they do not harm vegetation while grazing.

Breeding Information

Albino Bristlenose Catfish are relatively easy to breed in captivity. They spawn in caves, where the male guards and aerates the eggs until they hatch. To encourage breeding, ensure optimal water conditions and provide multiple hiding spots. Feed fry with crushed algae wafers or blanched vegetables to support healthy growth.

Availability:
The Albino Bristlenose Catfish is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to confirm availability and add this helpful and attractive species to your aquarium today!

Albino Corydoras (Corydoras aeneus)

The Albino Corydoras is a peaceful and hardy bottom-dwelling catfish with a striking albino coloration. Known for its sociable nature, this species is an excellent addition to community aquariums, where it helps keep the substrate clean by scavenging for leftover food. Its gentle demeanor and ease of care make it a popular choice for both beginner and experienced aquarists.

Product Details

• Species: Corydoras aeneus
• Common Names: Albino Corydoras, Albino Bronze Cory
• Origin: South America (Amazon Basin, Rio Orinoco)
• Diet: Omnivorous
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Temperature: 22°C – 28°C
• Maximum Size: Up to 7 cm (2.8 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful, social
• Available Size: Juvenile 4–5 cm

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
Albino Corydoras are ideal for aquariums with soft, sandy substrates, as they use their barbels to forage along the bottom. A tank of at least 60 liters is suitable for a small school of Corydoras. Provide plenty of plants and hiding spots to mimic their natural environment. These fish prefer to be kept in groups of at least five, as they are social animals and feel more secure in schools.

Water Parameters:
Maintain a pH between 6.0 and 7.5, and keep the water temperature between 22°C and 28°C. Corydoras are sensitive to poor water quality, so regular water changes and proper filtration are essential for their health.

Diet:
Albino Corydoras are omnivorous and will scavenge for leftover food, but it’s important to supplement their diet with sinking pellets, algae wafers, and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. Fresh vegetables, such as blanched zucchini or spinach, can also be offered to ensure a balanced diet.

Behavior and Compatibility:
These fish are peaceful and get along well with most community tank mates. They are often found in the lower parts of the aquarium, where they will sift through the substrate in search of food. Avoid keeping them with large or overly aggressive fish. They do well with other peaceful species, including tetras, rasboras, and other bottom dwellers.

Breeding Information

Breeding Albino Corydoras in captivity is possible with the right conditions. Males typically chase females around the tank, and when a female is ready to spawn, she will lay her eggs on hard surfaces like leaves or rocks. The male fertilizes the eggs, and the female guards them until they hatch, usually within 3-4 days. The fry can be fed with finely crushed flakes or baby brine shrimp.

Availability:
The Albino Corydoras is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to confirm availability and add this peaceful, bottom-dwelling catfish to your aquarium today!

Albino Sailfin Plecostomus (Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps)

The Albino Sailfin Plecostomus is a strikingly beautiful and hardy fish known for its large sail-like dorsal fin and albino coloration. This peaceful bottom-dweller is a natural algae eater, making it a valuable addition to larger aquariums, where it can help maintain a clean environment. Its unique appearance and beneficial role in the tank make it a favorite among freshwater aquarists.

Product Details

• Species: Glyptoperichthys gibbiceps
• Common Names: Albino Sailfin Pleco, Albino Sailfin Catfish
• Origin: South America (Amazon and Orinoco River basins)
• Diet: Herbivorous
• pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5
• Temperature: 24°C – 30°C
• Maximum Size: Up to 40 cm (16 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Available Size: Juvenile 6–8 cm

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
A large tank of at least 200 liters is recommended for the Albino Sailfin Plecostomus due to its potential size. The aquarium should include smooth surfaces, such as driftwood and large rocks, which the fish will use for grazing. A fine gravel or sand substrate is ideal to prevent injury to the fish's delicate underside. The tank should also have efficient filtration, as this species produces a significant amount of waste.

Water Parameters:
Maintain a pH between 6.5 and 7.5, and the water temperature should range between 24°C and 30°C. Regular water changes and robust filtration are crucial to maintain water quality, as this fish is sensitive to poor water conditions.

Diet:
The Albino Sailfin Plecostomus is primarily herbivorous and feeds on algae, detritus, and plant matter in the wild. In the aquarium, provide sinking algae wafers, high-quality pellets, and fresh vegetables such as zucchini, cucumber, and spinach. Occasionally, offer live or frozen foods like bloodworms as a treat, but the primary diet should be plant-based to maintain its health.

Behavior and Compatibility:
This species is peaceful and does well with other non-aggressive tank mates. While it is generally calm, it requires plenty of space to roam and graze. It is best kept in larger community tanks with other peaceful fish species, but avoid housing it with overly aggressive or small fish that could be intimidated by its size.

Breeding Information

Breeding the Albino Sailfin Plecostomus in captivity is rare and can be challenging. It requires specific environmental conditions, including a large, mature tank with plenty of hiding spots. This species is known to be a cave spawner, where the female will lay eggs that the male guards. To encourage breeding, provide a varied diet and ensure excellent water quality.

Availability:
The Albino Sailfin Plecostomus is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to confirm availability and add this striking and beneficial species to your aquarium today!

Corydoras or commonly called cories are a staple fish for any tropical community aquarium, they are hardy, super active, and have tonnes of benefits as well. The Corydoras family has hundreds of different species of all different shapes, colours, and sizes. One of these is the incredibly popular Peppered Corydoras which is a fantastic entry-level Cory due to its hardiness, its ability to handle lower temperatures, and because it stays smaller compared to other commonly available Corydoras.

As their name suggests peppered Corydoras have an amazing range of peppering through their body, this array of colour ranges from metallic silvers, emerald greens, and light blues. They are also far lighter compared to other Corydoras species which makes them a true eye-catcher. Peppered cories are also great because they can be kept in temperatures as low as 22 degrees making them a great species to add to cooler water aquariums. One of the greatest benefits to all corydoras is their habit to constantly stir the substrate layer, they act like mini bulldozers sometimes shoving their entire face into the sand bed searching for food which in turn makes sure it is stays turned over.

They are also bottom-dwelling fish and are an awesome option to add some life to the bottom of the tank. Peppered Corydoras are not shy fish and are constantly actively making them a great and popular fish for community and planted aquariums, peppered corydoras are also considered to be schooling catfish, in the wild they are often seen in groups of a few hundred however in the home aquarium it is recommended to keep at least 3 or more. An ideal school would be around 6 plus individuals to really make them feel comfortable and to add some activity to the tank.

The peppered corydoras are incredibly peaceful and remain fairly small at 6cm max. They are also bred fairly easily in captivity where they will scatter eggs often on the aquarium glass resulting in a fun breeding project. differentiating males and females are possible where the males are often smaller and narrower compared to the larger-bodied females.  However, the best method to identify is to get a pack of 4-6 Corydoras and let a pair naturally form. The wild origin of the peppered corydoras is South America.

Tank Recommendations for your Peppered Corydoras

Being a small catfish, peppered corydoras can be kept in smaller aquariums with the minimum being around 60 liters (20 gallons). This ensures that there is enough space for a school of Corydoras along with any other tank mates. A sand substrate is best as coarser substrates like gravel often result in Corydoras damaging their barbels, this can then lead to infection or further medical problems. The peppered Corydoras would look really nice against lighter coloured sand with incredibly fine gravel as this would best replicate their native range and allow for the cories to blend into their surroundings. They will also appreciate larger stones and wood in the aquarium to allow for cover. They also plant safely and thrive in a well-planted aquarium. Larger leafed plants such as amazon swords also allow for great egg-laying surfaces. The leaves with eggs can be pinched out of the aquarium and raised separately.

Suitable Tank Buddies

Peppered Corydoras is an incredibly peaceful fish that can be kept with an absolutely massive range of community aquariums. They do not display any aggression even when breeding and make for a perfect addition even with sensitive or shy fish. They also make for great dither fish allowing for potentially shy tank mates to display themselves more. The only factor which should be considered is that Corydoras are almost exclusively a bottom-dwelling species which means that any super active or large top dwelling fish may outcompete the corydoras for food. 

Usually Compatible

community fish such as rams, tetras, angelfish, discus, rainbow fish, and many many more.

Sometimes Compatible

Larger peaceful South American cichlids such as Uaru, Severums, and other fish may out-compete them as they are mostly bottom-dwelling fish. 

Rarely Compatible

Large and aggressive species such as the Oscars may prey on the Corydoras. This is especially important as Corydoras have spines on their pectoral fins like many catfish, this can result in both the corydoras and the predator fish’s death.

Feeding your peppered Corydoras 

peppered cories are very easy to feed. They will take a wide range of pellets, flakes, and frozen foods. Just like any fish though they should be fed a varied diet with a mix of different foods. The ideal diet would be a good quality micro slow sinking pellet or crushed flake, supplemented with frozen bloodworms or black worms or even live foods like baby brine shrimp or micro worms. The only thing to ensure is that the food is actually reaching the Corydoras as they can often be outcompeted. This can be averted through multiple feedings throughout the day or the use of a feeding tube.

Farlowella Catfish (Farlowella sp.)

The Farlowella Catfish, commonly referred to as the Twig Catfish, is a fascinating freshwater species known for its slender, twig-like body and excellent algae-grazing abilities. Native to the slow-moving waters of South America, this peaceful and uniquely camouflaged fish is a favorite for planted and community aquariums. Its distinctive appearance and low-maintenance care requirements make it an excellent choice for aquarists seeking a functional and intriguing addition to their tank.

Product Details

• Species: Farlowella sp.
• Common Names: Farlowella Catfish, Twig Catfish, Whiptail Catfish
• Origin: South America (Amazon and Orinoco River Basins)
• Diet: Herbivore
• Maximum Size: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Moderate

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
Farlowella Catfish thrive in tanks of at least 100 liters with plenty of driftwood, plants, and hiding spots to replicate their natural habitat. They prefer soft substrates and heavily planted aquariums with gentle water flow. Good water quality is essential, as these catfish are sensitive to fluctuations in water parameters.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–12 dGH)

Diet:
Farlowella Catfish are primarily herbivorous and require a diet rich in plant material. Provide algae wafers, spirulina tablets, and blanched vegetables like zucchini, spinach, and cucumber. While they may graze on natural algae in the tank, supplemental feeding is necessary for their health and growth.

Behavior and Compatibility:
This peaceful bottom-dweller is ideal for community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Suitable tankmates include tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid keeping them with aggressive or territorial species, as the Farlowella is a slow-moving and timid fish. They can also be kept in small groups for added comfort and natural behavior.

Growth and Maintenance:

Farlowella Catfish grow up to 20 cm and require consistent care to thrive. Perform regular water changes and maintain stable water parameters. Their algae-grazing behavior helps keep the aquarium clean, but ensure they receive sufficient supplemental food, especially in newer tanks with limited algae growth.

Availability:
Farlowella Catfish (Farlowella sp.) are available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and add this unique and functional fish to your freshwater aquarium today!

Due to variations within species and age of fish, your item may not look identical to the image provided.

Royal Whiptail Catfish (Sturisoma panamense)

The Royal Whiptail Catfish (Sturisoma panamense) is a fascinating and elegant freshwater species, known for its elongated body, delicate fins, and distinctive "whiptail." Originating from South America's rivers and streams, this peaceful bottom-dweller is a popular choice for aquarists who appreciate unique and functional fish that add charm to a community tank.

Product Details

• Species: Sturisoma panamense
• Common Names: Royal Whiptail Catfish, Panama Whiptail
• Origin: South America (Panama and Colombia)
• Diet: Omnivore (with a preference for algae)
• Maximum Size: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Care Level: Moderate

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
Royal Whiptail Catfish thrive in tanks of at least 100 liters, with soft sandy or fine gravel substrates to protect their delicate barbels. Include driftwood, rocks, and live plants to mimic their natural environment and provide hiding spots. Maintain moderate water flow and ensure excellent water quality, as these fish are sensitive to poor conditions.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C – 27°C
• pH Range: 6.5 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard (4–12 dGH)

Diet:
Royal Whiptail Catfish are omnivorous, with a strong preference for plant material and algae. Offer algae wafers, spirulina tablets, and blanched vegetables like zucchini, cucumber, or spinach as their primary diet. Supplement with occasional live or frozen foods such as bloodworms or brine shrimp for added nutrition.

Behavior and Compatibility:
This peaceful catfish is ideal for community tanks with other non-aggressive species. Compatible tankmates include tetras, rasboras, Corydoras, and small cichlids. Avoid housing them with aggressive or territorial fish that may outcompete them for food or cause stress. They can also be kept in small groups, provided the tank is large enough.

Growth and Maintenance:

Royal Whiptail Catfish grow up to 20 cm and are relatively hardy with proper care. Perform regular water changes and monitor water quality closely. Their algae-grazing habits help maintain a clean aquarium, but supplemental feeding is necessary for their overall health and longevity.

Availability:
Royal Whiptail Catfish (Sturisoma panamense) are available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and bring home this graceful and unique fish for your freshwater aquarium today!

Due to variations within species and age of fish, your item may not look identical to the image provided.

The Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) is a fascinating freshwater species, renowned for its striking spotted pattern, playful behavior, and unique breeding strategy, which mimics the reproductive habits of cuckoo birds. Native to Lake Tanganyika, this hardy catfish is an excellent addition to African cichlid tanks, where it thrives in hard, alkaline water conditions. Its active and social nature makes it a favorite among aquarists looking for a lively bottom-dweller.

Product Details

• Species: Synodontis multipunctatus
• Common Names: Cuckoo Catfish, Cuckoo Synodontis, Multi-Spotted Synodontis
• Origin: Lake Tanganyika, Africa
• Diet: Omnivore
• Maximum Size: 15–20 cm (6–8 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful to Semi-aggressive
• Care Level: Easy to Moderate

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
Cuckoo Catfish require a tank of at least 200 liters, with sandy or fine gravel substrate to protect their delicate barbels. Provide plenty of caves, driftwood, and rock structures to mimic their natural habitat. These fish are nocturnal and enjoy having shaded hiding spots during the day but become more active during feeding times.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 24°C – 28°C
• pH Range: 7.5 – 8.5
• Water Hardness: Hard (10–20 dGH)

Diet:
Cuckoo Catfish are omnivores and require a varied diet. Offer high-quality sinking pellets or wafers as a staple, along with live or frozen foods such as bloodworms, brine shrimp, and daphnia. They also graze on algae and detritus, helping to keep the aquarium clean. Feed them once or twice daily.

Behavior and Compatibility:
These catfish are social and should be kept in groups of at least 3–5 individuals. They are well-suited for African cichlid tanks, as they thrive in similar water conditions and can hold their own against moderately aggressive tankmates. Avoid housing them with overly aggressive or predatory fish.

Growth and Maintenance:

Cuckoo Catfish grow up to 20 cm and require stable water conditions and regular tank maintenance. Perform frequent water changes and ensure a well-oxygenated environment. Their energetic nature, unique breeding habits, and striking spotted appearance make them a standout addition to freshwater aquariums.

Availability:
Cuckoo Catfish (Synodontis multipunctatus) are available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit or contact the store to check availability and bring home this lively and fascinating catfish today!

Due to variations within species and age of fish, your item may not look identical to the image provided.

The Three-Lined Corydoras is a peaceful bottom-dwelling catfish known for its intricate, maze-like pattern that resembles three horizontal stripes. These social fish thrive in groups and are excellent scavengers, helping to keep the substrate clean while adding lively activity to the tank.

Product Details

• Species: Corydoras trilineatus
• Common Names: Three-Lined Corydoras, False Julii Corydoras, Leopard Cory
• Origin: South America (Amazon Basin, Peru, Ecuador, Brazil)
• Diet: Omnivore
• Maximum Size: 5–6 cm (2–2.5 inches)
• Temperament: Peaceful, social
• Care Level: Easy

Care Guidelines

Aquarium Setup:
A soft, sandy substrate is ideal to protect their delicate barbels. Provide a well-planted tank with hiding spots such as driftwood, rocks, or caves. A minimum tank size of 75 liters (20 gallons) is recommended. They prefer a gentle water flow and a well-oxygenated environment.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 22°C – 26°C (72°F – 79°F)
• pH Range: 6.0 – 7.5
• Water Hardness: Soft to moderate (2–12 dGH)

Diet:
Three-Lined Corydoras are omnivores and enjoy a varied diet of sinking pellets, wafers, frozen foods (bloodworms, daphnia, brine shrimp), and occasional blanched vegetables. They will also scavenge for leftover food but should be supplemented with quality sinking foods.

Behaviour and Compatibility:
These Corydoras are highly social and should be kept in groups of at least 5-6 to thrive. They are peaceful and do well with other non-aggressive fish, including tetras, rasboras, gouramis, and other community fish. Avoid aggressive species that may bully them.

Growth and Maintenance:

These fish stay relatively small but require clean water conditions. Weekly water changes and a strong but gentle filtration system are essential for their health. They are known for their playful behavior, often seen darting to the surface for a quick gulp of air.

Availability:

The Three-Lined Corydoras (Corydoras trilineatus) is available at Cradle Coast Pet & Aquarium. Visit us or contact us today to check availability and bring home this delightful bottom-dweller!

Due to variations within species and age of fish, your item may not look identical to the image provided.

L333 Hypancistrus Pleco

• Species: Hypancistrus sp. L333
• Common Names: Yellow King Tiger Pleco, King Tiger Pleco
• Origin: Native to the Xingu River, Brazil
• Light Requirements: Low to moderate lighting
• Diet: Omnivorous – enjoys a mix of high-protein foods and plant matter
• Maximum Size: ~5 inches (12–13 cm)
• Temperament: Generally peaceful, but can be territorial with other bottom dwellers
• Care Level: Moderate

Aquarium Setup:

The L333 Hypancistrus Pleco thrives in well-oxygenated aquariums with moderate to strong water flow. A setup with plenty of hiding spots, such as caves, driftwood, and rock structures, is essential as this species prefers to establish its own territory. A sandy or fine gravel substrate is recommended to prevent injury.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 78–86°F (26–30°C)
• pH: 6.0–7.5
• Hardness: Soft to moderate (2–12 dGH)
• Tank Size: Minimum 30 gallons for a single specimen, larger if housing multiple

Growth and Maintenance:

L333 Plecos grow at a moderate pace and require high-quality water conditions. Regular water changes (at least 30–50% weekly) and a well-maintained filtration system are crucial, as they are sensitive to poor water quality. Strong aeration and good circulation help replicate their natural riverine habitat.

Diet:

Being an omnivore, the L333 Pleco benefits from a varied diet. Provide high-protein foods like frozen or live bloodworms, brine shrimp, and carnivore pellets, alongside high-quality sinking wafers and occasional vegetable matter such as zucchini, spinach, or peas. Unlike other plecos, they do not consume much wood, so additional fiber is not a strict requirement.

Compatibility:

This pleco is generally peaceful but may become territorial toward other bottom dwellers, especially other plecos. It coexists well with peaceful mid-to-top dwelling species like tetras, rasboras, and dwarf cichlids. Avoid keeping them with large, aggressive fish.

Breeding:

L333 Plecos are cave spawners. Males tend to guard the cave where the female lays eggs. Spawning is more successful in aquariums with a strong water flow and slightly warmer temperatures (around 84–86°F). Fry require a high-protein diet to grow properly.

Availability:

L333 Hypancistrus Plecos are popular among pleco enthusiasts and may be available as captive-bred specimens. Availability may vary depending on stock levels. Contact us to check for current inventory and place an order.

Disclaimer:

Due to variations within the species and age of fish, your item may not look identical to the image provided.