Species profile
Striped Raphael Catfish
Platydoras armatulus
Peaceful
Easy care
300 L minimum aquarium
20–30 cm adult size
Bottom
Can be kept singly
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
True striped Raphael/talking catfish. Historically sold for decades under the wrong name Platydoras costatus.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–28 °C
pH
5.8–7.5
GH
2–15 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Low
Data confidence
Verified
Behaviour
General behaviour traits used by TanksConnected compatibility checks.
Minimum group size
Can be kept singly
Tank zone
Bottom
Territory level
Low
Predation risk
Small fish
Bioload factor
2.8
Peaceful, nocturnal and heavily armoured. Uses caves by day and may live singly or socially in a much larger tank; very small tankmates can be eaten at night.
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
Yes
Jump risk
Low
Natural history & care
Research-backed context for long-term aquarium care.
Lifespan
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
300 L
Minimum footprint
120 × 50 cm
Accepted scientific name
Platydoras armatulus
Alternative names
Striped Raphael Catfish, Striped Talking Catfish, Rafael Striped Catfish, Platydoras costatus (historic trade misidentification)
Native range
Lower Orinoco, Amazon and Paraguay–Paraná drainages in South America.
Natural habitat
Slow and moderate-flow river/floodplain habitats. Provide soft substrate, substantial caves/wood, shaded cover and enough floor area for a thick-bodied adult.
Diet & feeding
Nocturnal omnivore/scavenger. Feed sinking foods after lights dim, including quality pellets and varied invertebrate foods.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
External sexing is difficult; mature females are often fuller-bodied.
Breeding
Aquarium breeding is uncommon and not reliably documented for routine home conditions.