Oil catfish

Duringlanis perugiae

A small pale-and-black patterned catfish that shelters by day and feeds after dusk.

A short rounded head, large eyes and irregular black markings on a pale body are conspicuous; fins are largely clear. Mature males have a modified anal fin.

Adult length: Up to 5 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 26–28 °C
pH: 6.5–7

Natural habitat: Inhabits swift large rivers near the shoreline, favouring firm sandy beds without vegetation.

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Appearance and identification

Compared with pictus catfish, this fish is shorter-bodied with a rounder head and more reticulated markings; pictus are more elongate with longer barbels. Similar spots do not mean the same care.

Floor and movement space

Keep at 26–28°C and pH 6.5–7.0, with sand, wood crevices or suitable tubes, clean oxygenated water and flowing activity areas.

Aquarium environment

Plants can supplement shelter, with flow routes and feeding areas kept accessible. Dense planting is not required.

Diet and feeding

Offer small portions of suitable complete food and frozen or live foods after dark, checking they are eaten. Do not feed until distended. Open-water feeding does not mean only floating food is needed.