Armoured Catfish (Loricariidae family)

The Armoured Catfish is a general name used for several species of catfish belonging to the Loricariidae family, including many popular plecos. These fascinating bottom-dwelling fish are recognised by their bony body plates, sucker-shaped mouths and ability to cling to rocks, driftwood and aquarium glass.

Depending on the species, armoured catfish can range from small, peaceful algae grazers to large fish that require substantial aquariums. Many are valued for their unusual appearance and interesting behaviour, making them popular choices for specialist freshwater setups.

🌿 Why Choose an Armoured Catfish?

• 🛡️ Natural armour: Bony plates provide a distinctive, rugged appearance.

• 🪵 Interesting behaviour: Often seen clinging to surfaces and exploring decorations.

• 🌿 Varied feeding habits: Many species graze on algae and biofilm, while others need a more varied diet.

• 🐟 Wide variety: Includes bristlenose plecos, rubber-lip plecos and many specialist species.

• 🪨 Bottom-dwelling activity: Adds interest to the lower levels of the aquarium.

🌍 Natural Habitat

Armoured catfish are native to freshwater habitats across Central and South America, including rivers, streams and tributaries. Different species occupy different environments, from fast-flowing, oxygen-rich waters to slower rivers with submerged wood, rocks and leaf litter.

A suitable aquarium should reflect the needs of the particular species, with appropriate water movement, hiding places and a diet tailored to its natural feeding habits.

📏 Care Requirements

Care requirements vary considerably by species, so the following is a general guide for smaller, commonly kept armoured catfish such as Corydoras.

• Scientific Name: Varies by species; commonly Corydoras spp.

• Common Name: Armoured Catfish

• Minimum Tank Size: Around 60 litres for a small group of smaller species; larger species need more space.

• Adult Size: Approximately 3–8 cm for many common Corydoras species, although other armoured catfish grow much larger.

• Temperature: Generally 22–26°C, depending on species.

• pH: Approximately 6.0–7.5 for many commonly kept species.

• Temperament: Peaceful and generally community-friendly.

• Diet: Sinking catfish pellets, wafers, frozen bloodworms and other suitable small foods.

• Group Size: Keep Corydoras in groups of at least 6 of the same species where possible.

Provide a soft sand substrate to protect their sensitive barbels, along with plants, driftwood and shaded hiding places. Good filtration and well-oxygenated water are important. Although some armoured catfish graze on algae, they should not be expected to survive on leftover food or algae alone.

🐠 Compatibility

Many smaller armoured catfish make excellent community aquarium residents when kept with peaceful fish that share similar water requirements.

Suitable tank mates may include:

• Small tetras and rasboras.

• Guppies and platies.

• Peaceful dwarf gouramis.

• Other peaceful bottom-dwelling species, provided there is enough space.

Avoid:

• Large predatory fish that may eat them.

• Aggressive or highly territorial tank mates.

• Sharp gravel that could damage their barbels.

• Keeping social Corydoras species singly or in very small groups.

⚠️ Important Notes

• Identify the species: The name “Armoured Catfish” covers different fish with very different adult sizes and care needs.

• Protect their barbels: Use fine sand or smooth substrate and maintain excellent water quality.

• Feed deliberately: Ensure food reaches the bottom and that each fish gets enough to eat.

• Provide oxygen: Good water circulation and oxygenation support their health.

• Plan for adult size: Some armoured catfish grow far too large for ordinary community aquariums.

Armoured catfish can be rewarding additions to freshwater aquariums, but the exact species is important when choosing tank size, temperature and tank mates.

If you can tell me the size, colour or scientific name shown on your supplier's stock list, I can tailor this description to the exact fish you're selling.