White-whiskered Catfish

Adults reach about 17 cm in length. The body is elongated and dark, almost black. The dorsal fin is divided into two parts: the first is tall and raised, the second lower and extending to the caudal fin, which is semi-transparent. The most distinctive feature is the white barbels. There are no marked differences between males and females.

This species comes from Southeast Asia, particularly the basins of the Mekong and Chao Phraya rivers in Thailand and Laos, and possibly Cambodia. These catfish prefer slow-flowing river sections with silted bottoms. During the rainy season they move to flooded forest areas along the banks.

These fish are territorial. Males typically do not tolerate rivals or other bottom-dwellers nearby. Females are more tolerant. It is best to keep them in a harem: one male with 3–4 females. Telling males and females apart is difficult because sexual dimorphism is weakly expressed. Compatible tank mates are fish of similar size living in the middle or upper levels.

A group of 3–4 white-whiskered catfish needs a tank of at least 250 litres. Because they are nocturnal, the tank must have reliable hiding places such as caves and crevices made from driftwood and stone, or ceramic pots laid on their side. Plants are optional and can be chosen based on the needs of other inhabitants. Long-term success depends on stable water parameters within the acceptable ranges and on maintaining proper temperature. While a good filter is essential, regular maintenance is just as important: weekly water changes and removal of organic waste. Do not neglect either.

This omnivorous catfish readily accepts most common aquarium foods, including sinking flakes and pellets as well as live or frozen foods such as bloodworm, brine shrimp and daphnia.

Successful breeding of white-whiskered catfish in home tanks has not been recorded. In nature, spawning is seasonal and linked to the alternation of dry and wet seasons. During heavy rains, forest areas and riverbanks flood, and the fish move there to breed. Recreating these complex conditions outside nature is very difficult.

Fish kept in good conditions rarely fall ill. Disease usually indicates problems with keeping conditions such as poor water quality, low-quality food or injury. In most cases, fixing the root cause leads to recovery. Sometimes medication may be needed.

When choosing a white-whiskered catfish, watch it at night, since it hides during the day. A healthy fish should have clean skin with no visible damage, sores or white coating, and undamaged fins. Check the barbels — they should be long and show no sign of erosion, which often occurs in poor water quality. Avoid fish with a sunken belly or signs of wasting, as these may indicate internal parasites or difficulty adapting to food. Because this species is territorial, observe the fish in the shop tank: it should show no signs of severe stress or constant attacks from neighbours.