Coral Catfish

Special requirements

• Venomous Spines

  Possesses venomous spines; extreme caution must be exercised during handling or tank maintenance to avoid painful stings.

• Obligate Juvenile Schooling

  Juveniles are highly social and must be kept in groups; isolated individuals often stop eating and hide due to stress.

• Substrate & Foraging

  Requires a soft sandy substrate to facilitate natural sifting behavior; meaty foods should be targeted toward the bottom of the tank.

• Copper Sensitivity

  Like most scaleless or 'armored' catfish, this species is highly sensitive to copper-based medications.

• Ontogenetic Behavioral Shift

  While juveniles are peaceful schoolers, adults become solitary, reach 12 inches, and display more aggressive tendencies.