Species profile
Four-lined Pimelodus
Pimelodus blochii
Semi aggressive
Hard care
600 L minimum aquarium
25–35 cm adult size
Bottom–mid
Minimum group: 3
About this species
General notes for hobby use.
Large, active, gregarious pimelodid with a huge mouth. Small fish will be eaten and a group requires serious floor space.
Water parameters
Suggested general range for long-term care.
Temperature
23–27 °C
pH
6–7.6
GH
2–12 dGH
KH
Not yet documented
Flow preference
Moderate
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
5
Social and mobile, especially after dark. Keep several only where the aquarium is genuinely large enough; cramped groups become a welfare problem.
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
Not yet documented
Diet type
Omnivore
Minimum aquarium volume
600 L
Minimum footprint
180 × 60 cm
Accepted scientific name
Pimelodus blochii
Alternative names
Four-lined Pimelodus, Bloch's Pimelodus, Four-line Pimelodus
Native range
Widespread northern and central South American river basins.
Natural habitat
Large riverine aquarium with soft sand, substantial wood/rock cover, open swimming room, strong filtration and secure cover.
Diet & feeding
Opportunistic feeder taking insects, fruits, detritus and fish; use varied sinking carnivore/omnivore foods and meaty frozen items.
Breeding & sexing
Research-backed guidance for identifying sexes and reproductive behaviour.
Sexing
Reliable external sexing is difficult.
Breeding
Not routinely bred in home aquaria; reproductive biology is not practical for ordinary captive setups.