Species profile
Pictus Catfish
Pimelodus pictus
Semi aggressive
Moderate care
250 L minimum aquarium
10–15 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 3
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Very active predatory Pimelodus. Keep with robust fish too large to swallow and provide substantial swimming length.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
24–28 °C
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate–high
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Minimum group: 3
Tank zone
Bottom–mid
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.2
Fast, social and strongly food-driven. A small group is preferable where space allows; sharp pectoral/dorsal spines require careful netting and handling.
Compatibility flags
Quick cautions for common tank-planning issues.
Fin nipper
No
Plant safe
Yes
Shrimp safe
No / caution
Snail safe
No / caution
Cave breeder
No
Digs substrate
No
Jump risk
Yes
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
4–8 years
Diet type
Carnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
250 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 45 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pimelodus pictus
Alternative names
Pictus Catfish, Pimelodus pictus
Native range
Amazon and Orinoco basins of Colombia, Venezuela, Peru and adjacent South America.
Natural habitat
Flowing river habitats. Provide open swimming space, current, high oxygen, shaded refuges and smooth décor that will not damage long barbels.
Diet & feeding
Predatory insectivore/carnivore. Feed quality sinking carnivore pellets and varied frozen/live invertebrate foods; small fish and shrimp may be eaten.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
No dependable external sexual dimorphism for routine aquarium use.
Breeding
Routine aquarium breeding is not established; commercial availability should not be interpreted as easy home spawning.