(EEE) Colombian Wood Catfish (Trachelyopterus galeatus) [≈ 3 inches]

Description

Colombian Wood Catfish (Trachelyopterus galeatus)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Trachelyopterus galeatus
Common Names: Colombian Wood Catfish, Driftwood Catfish, Spotted Wood Catfish
Family: Auchenipteridae
Origin: Colombia, Venezuela, and the Amazon Basin (South America)
Size: 6 – 8 inches (15 – 20 cm)
Lifespan: 8 – 12 years
Tank Zone: Bottom to mid dweller (mostly nocturnal)

🌊 Water Parameters

TDS: 100 – 250 ppm
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
Temperature: 24 – 28°C (75 – 82°F)
Hardness: 4 – 12 dGH

🐟 Characteristics

Body: Elongated and laterally compressed with dark brown or grayish coloration resembling driftwood; small spots or mottled pattern often visible
Behavior: Nocturnal and secretive; hides during the day and becomes active at night
Adaptability: Peaceful but predatory towards very small fish
Unique Feature: Possesses the ability to produce audible “grunting” or “clicking” sounds using its pectoral fins
Nature: Hardy, adaptable, and best suited for dimly lit or blackwater setups

🍽️ Food

Type: Carnivorous
Diet: Sinking carnivore pellets, bloodworms, shrimp, chopped fish, and insect larvae
Feeding: Feed after lights-out or during the evening when most active

🛠️ Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 50 gallons (190 L)
Filtration: Efficient filtration with moderate flow; prefers clean, oxygenated water
Decor: Driftwood, caves, leaf litter, and subdued lighting to mimic natural habitat
Substrate: Fine sand or smooth gravel
Water Change: 25 – 30% weekly

👥 Social Behavior

Minimum Group Size: Can be kept singly or in small groups (if space allows)
Tank Mates: Medium to large peaceful fish like Severums, Geophagus, Silver Dollars, and Plecos
Avoid: Small fish that fit in its mouth or aggressive cichlids

✅ Do’s

Provide plenty of hiding spots and driftwood
Feed during evening or low light periods
Maintain stable, clean water parameters
Use dim or subdued lighting

❌ Don’ts

Don’t house with tiny fish or fin-nippers
Don’t expose to bright lighting or open setups
Don’t neglect regular maintenance and filtration

⭐ Quick Tips

The Colombian Wood Catfish is a hardy, peaceful nocturnal predator that thrives in natural, dimly lit aquariums.
Perfect for Amazon-themed setups with driftwood and soft, warm water conditions.