San Juan Catfish Gastrodermus sp.”San Juan”
£10.00
San Juan Catfish Gastrodermus sp.”San Juan”
Bulk Offer – 3 for £27.00
Discount will apply at checkout.
- Description
- Store Policies
- Enquiries
Description
San Juan Catfish Gastrodermus sp.”San Juan”
Care Guide:
The San Juan Catfish (Gastrodermus sp. “San Juan”) is a highly desirable, armored freshwater fish. Notably, this captivating little bottom-dweller belongs to the Gastrodermus elegans species group. Imported predominantly from Peru, it represents an exceptionally rare gem within the modern aquarium hobby.
Unique Behavioral Traits
In captivity, these fish display truly fascinating swimming habits. Unlike standard armored catfish that remain strictly on the substrate, they love to hover mid-water. They frequently glide gracefully among structures and within the water column. Because they mimic the unique mid-water behavior of miniature pygmy catfish variants, they provide continuous activity and entertainment.
Ideal Aquarium Water Parameters
Maintaining high water quality is highly beneficial for their long-term health and vitality. Although they are relatively hardy once fully acclimatised, they demand stable and pristine conditions. Therefore, the following specific parameters must be monitored closely:
- Acidity Range: A stable pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard freshwater.
- Temperature Range: Sustained steadily between 22°C and 26°C.
- Oxygenation: High dissolved oxygen with clean, efficient filtration.
Structural Tank Setup and Decor
Furthermore, the physical arrangement of the aquarium must mirror their native South American environments. Incorporating plenty of tangled driftwood and arching branches is highly recommended. Additionally, the substrate must strictly consist of soft sand to protect their delicate sensory barbels from damage. If you provide ample shady retreats alongside open sandy patches, they will quickly settle.
Dietary Habits and Nutrition
When considering nutrition, they are enthusiastic omnivores that forage diligently across the substrate. They should never be expected to survive solely on tank leftovers. Therefore, a well-balanced, high-protein diet must be offered nightly to ensure their overall health. Specifically, their feeding regime should regularly incorporate:
- High-quality sinking catfish tablets or micro granules.
- Nutritious frozen or live bloodworms and daphnia.
- Live brineshrimp and small pieces of chopped earthworm.
Social Structure and Tankmates
Finally, these peaceful catfish possess an incredibly friendly temperament. Because they are dedicated social shoaling animals, they should never be kept on their own. You must always keep them in a proper group of five or more specimens to boost their confidence. Consequently, they thrive alongside calm community companions like small tetras, pencilfish, and gentle dwarf cichlids.
General Enquiries
There are no enquiries yet.
