Pseudauchenipterus nodosus

Alternative names

 * Cocosoda Catfish

Sexing

 * Females grow larger than males. Males are more slender than females and have a genital papilla. They also have a slightly protruding lower jaw.

Tank compatibility

 * Should be housed with robust yet peaceful similar-sized fish, very small fish or fry may be eaten. This fish can be particularly bold around feeding time so should not be kept with shy fish.

Diet

 * Should accept most meaty foods such as bloodworm and also dry pellet and flake food.

Feeding regime

 * Feed once or twice a day. Juveniles tend to feed on the substrate while adults will happily go to the surface for food.

Environment Specifics

 * Requires a spacious well filtered tank with ample swimming room. Will require hiding places too.

Behaviour

 * A bold but peaceful catfish.

Identification

 * A slender species of catfish with rather long barbels for an Auchenipterid. The sharply forked caudal fin is jet black. The snout is very rounded with a terminal mouth. P. nodosus has a complete lateral line with zig-zags. It is stated that the colour of the tail fades or even disappears as the fish grows larger although this has been contradicted by at least some individuals grown up to to that had their caudal fin remain black.