Striped Raphael catfish

Platydoras armatulus

A pale stripe crosses thorn-bearing side plates; small-fish predation and net entanglement matter.

A pale lateral stripe runs from above the eye toward the tail across a row of backward-hooked bony scutes on a dark brown to black fish. A broad head, strong pectoral spines and hiding behaviour are conspicuous. Reaches 24 cm SL.

Adult length: Up to 43 cm (standard length, without the tail fin)
Water temperature: 24–30 °C
pH: 5.8–7.5
Hardness: 2–20 dGH

Natural habitat: Inhabits slow or still tributaries, creeks and swamps, sheltering among roots and submerged vegetation.

Strong pectoral spines and side armour can catch in nets and injure handlers; guide the fish into a suitable container rather than grasping spines or pulling a trapped fish. Offer separate refuges to avoid injury in shelter disputes.

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Appearance and identification

P. costatus is a separate valid species. Relatives differ in stripe and scute features, so trade names alone are not enough. Compared with spotted Agamyxis pectinifrons, this fish shows a continuous pale side stripe rather than scattered pale spots.

Floor and movement space

Inactivity does not justify a permanently small tank.

Aquarium environment

Plant shade can provide cover, but keep shelters and feeding areas accessible for inspection.

Diet and feeding

Use suitable complete sinking food as a staple, with frozen or live foods as supplements. Feed shy individuals after lights out and verify intake. Do not rely on leftovers or treat the fish as a cleaning device.