Blue Whale Catfish (Cetopsis coecutiens)

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Contents 1 Alternative names 1.1 Synonyms 2 Sexing 3 Tank compatibility 4 Diet 5 Feeding regime 6 Environment Specifics 7 Behaviour 8 Identification 9 Pictures 10 External links

Alternative names

Baby Whale Catfish, Blue Shark Catfish, Blue Torpedo Catfish, Blue Whale Catfish, Whale Catfish

Synonyms

Silurus coecutiens

Sexing

Males are slimmer than females and have a more pointed dorsal fin.

Tank compatibility

This fish does not play well with others and is best in a species tank. It will eat smaller fish and take chunks out of larger fish. It may possibly cohabit with armoured catfish provided they are both kept well fed.

Diet

This fish should accept most meaty foods and has a good appetite. A diet of foods such as shrimp, mussels, cockle, lancefish and earthworms is welcomed, live fish are not necessary. Some individuals may take some dry foods, but not all.

Feeding regime

Feed once or twice a day. This fish has a huge appetite so be careful not to overfeed.

Environment Specifics

The Blue Whale Catfish prefers a laterally spacious tank with a good current flowing through it and good oxygenation, either with a filter breaking the surface or a powerhead. It is unfussy with décor, large rocks or bits of sturdy bogwood will suffice. It does not appreciate bright lighting, a dimly lit tank is best.

Behaviour

A large mid-swimming nocturnal predatory catfish. It is said these fish will shoal in the wild, but this has not really been seen in captivity.

Identification

This fish earns its common name well, the body is elongated and stream-lined with a very rounded head. The dorsal fin is relatively small and pointed and the eyes are small. It is silvery-blue in colour, paler on the belly.

Pictures

External links

• Fishbase (Mirrors: )

• Planet Catfish
• Seriously Fish