Striped Raphael Catfish

Platydoras armatulus

Striped Raphael Catfish is a peaceful bottom-dwelling fish.

PeacefulBottom dwellerBeginner – Intermediate

Save this fish or add it directly to one of your aquariums.

Quick facts

Adult size
≤ 9.8" (≤ 25 cm)
Aquarium size
66 US gal (250 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length
Care level
Beginner – Intermediate
Temperament
Peaceful
Swimming zone
Bottom dweller
Temperature
72–86°F (22–30°C)
pH
6–7.5
GH
2–20 dGH
Diet
Omnivore
Lifespan
up to 20 years

Care requirements

Care level: Beginner – Intermediate.

Lifespan: up to 20 years.

Aquarium size and space needs

Minimum aquarium size: 66 US gal (250 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length. Plan the layout and stocking within that limit.

Water parameters

Suitable water: temperature 22–30 °C, pH 6–7.5, GH 2–20 dGH.

Temperament and compatibility

Striped Raphael Catfish is peaceful and suits calm community fish.

Swimming zone and behavior

This fish uses the bottom area, so leave enough open substrate area for movement and feeding.

Feeding

As an omnivore, Striped Raphael Catfish should receive a varied diet rather than one repeated food type.

Make sure food reaches the substrate before faster fish take it.

Before adding this fish

  • Plan for an aquarium of 66 US gal (250 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length.
  • Avoid aggressive or highly competitive fish.
  • Offer a varied diet suitable for an omnivorous bottom-dwelling fish.

Natural habitat and origin

Origin: Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, Venezuela.

Similar fish profiles

Use these profiles to compare fish with similar care level, size, temperature range, or swimming behavior.

African Glass Catfish Pareutropius debauwi Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Intermediate – Advanced ≤ 3.9" (≤ 10 cm) 72–81°F (22–27°C) Bengal Loach Botia dario Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Intermediate ≤ 5.9" (≤ 15 cm) 73–81°F (23–27°C) Agassizs Corydoras Corydoras agassizii Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Intermediate ≤ 2" (≤ 5 cm) 70–79°F (21–26°C) Amanda Jane Corydoras Corydoras amandajanea Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C) Araguaia Corydoras Corydoras araguaiaensis Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.4" (≤ 6 cm) 70–79°F (21–26°C) Armatus Corydoras Corydoras armatus Similar care level Same temperament Bottom dweller Beginner – Intermediate ≤ 2.6" (≤ 6.5 cm) 72–79°F (22–26°C)

FAQ

How large does Striped Raphael Catfish get?

Striped Raphael Catfish reaches ≤ 9.8" (≤ 25 cm). Allow for adult swimming space, filtration, and compatible companions.

What aquarium size does Striped Raphael Catfish need?

Use an aquarium of at least 66 US gal (250 L) or larger / ≥ 47.2" (≥ 120 cm) minimum length.

Is Striped Raphael Catfish peaceful?

Yes. Striped Raphael Catfish is recorded as peaceful and is best planned with calm community fish that do not harass it or dominate the feeding area.

What temperature is suitable for Striped Raphael Catfish?

Keep it between 22 to 30 °C.

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