Emerald catfish - Brochis splendens

Scientific name: Brochis splendens

Common name: Emerald catfish

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 5 - 6 cm (1.97 - 2.36 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6.8 - 7.3

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 22 - 27 °C (71.6 - 80.6°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

Emerald Catfish are bottom-dwelling scavengers that will consume a variety of foods. However, ensure they get enough to eat by feeding them sinking pellets and meaty foods. Their diet should include:

Sinking pellets specifically formulated for catfish.
Live and frozen foods like bloodworms, daphnia, and tubifex.
Blanched vegetables such as zucchini or spinach.
Occasional algae wafers for added nutrition.

Origin

Emerald Catfish are native to South America, particularly in the slow-moving waters of Brazil, Peru, and Ecuador. They prefer soft, sandy riverbeds and thrive in densely vegetated areas.

Sexing

Males tend to be smaller and more slender compared to females. Females are larger with a rounder belly, particularly when carrying eggs.

Breeding

Breeding Emerald Catfish can be challenging, but it is possible under optimal conditions:

Tank setup: Use a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH 6.5-7.0).
Water conditions: Lowering the water level and adding a moderate current helps simulate natural spawning conditions.
Spawning process: Females lay up to 300 eggs on tank glass, plants, or substrate.
Egg care: Eggs hatch in 4-5 days. Remove adults after spawning.
Fry diet: Feed fry infusoria or powdered fry food until they are large enough for newly hatched brine shrimp.

Lifespan

With proper care, Emerald Catfish can live for up to 5 years, with some individuals exceeding this in well-maintained aquariums.

Tank Setup and Water Parameters

Minimum Tank Size: 75 liters (~20 gallons) for a small group.
Substrate: Soft sand or fine gravel to protect their delicate barbels.
Water pH: 6.8 - 7.3.
Hardness: 4 - 18°N (71.43 - 321.43 ppm).
Temperature: 22 - 27°C (71.6 - 80.6°F).
Filtration: Gentle filtration with moderate water flow.
Lighting: Dim to moderate lighting with floating plants.

Compatible Tank Mates

Emerald Catfish are peaceful bottom dwellers, making them ideal for community tanks.

Best Tank Mates:

Small to medium-sized tetras (Neon Tetras, Rummy Nose Tetras).
Peaceful dwarf cichlids (Apistogramma, Laetacara curviceps).
Other Corydoras and Brochis species.
Livebearers (Guppies, Platies, Swordtails).
Dwarf Gouramis and other non-aggressive species.

Tank Mates to Avoid:

Aggressive cichlids (Oscars, Jack Dempseys).
Fin-nipping species (Tiger Barbs).
Large bottom-dwelling fish that may outcompete them for food.

Suitable Plants

Live plants improve water quality and provide natural hiding spots. Good choices include:

Amazon Sword (Echinodorus spp.) – Large-leaved plant for shelter.
Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus) – Hardy and low-maintenance.
Anubias (Anubias barteri) – Provides shade and cover.
Floating Plants (Salvinia, Frogbit, Water Lettuce) – Mimics their natural habitat.

Short Description

The Emerald Catfish (Brochis splendens) is a striking bottom-dweller with a shimmering green appearance. Unlike Corydoras, they grow slightly larger and require more space. Keeping them in groups of at least six enhances their social behavior and reduces stress.

These catfish are an excellent choice for peaceful community tanks, particularly those with soft substrates and dense plant cover. They are hardy fish, but regular water changes and proper tank conditions are necessary to maintain their health and longevity.

If you're looking for a beautiful, active, and peaceful catfish, the Emerald Catfish is a great addition to your aquarium!