Spotted pimelodus - Pimelodus maculatus

Scientific name: Pimelodus maculatus

Common name: Spotted pimelodus

Family: Pimelodidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 12 - 20 cm (4.72 - 7.87 inch)

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Recommended pH range: 6.7 - 7.5

Recommended water hardness: 4 - 20°N (71.43 - 357.14ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature range: 21 - 25 °C (69.8 - 77°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: aggressive to smaller

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and Feeding

The Spotted Pimelodus (Pimelodus maculatus) is an opportunistic feeder that will accept a wide variety of foods. They particularly enjoy bloodworms, but their diet should also include high-quality pellets, sinking wafers, and live or frozen foods such as brine shrimp and earthworms. They have a tendency to overeat, often causing their bellies to swell noticeably. It is essential to regulate their feeding to prevent excessive weight gain and maintain their overall health.

Origin and Natural Habitat

Native to South America, Pimelodus maculatus is commonly found in the rivers and tributaries of Brazil and Paraguay. They prefer slow to moderate water currents and tend to inhabit areas with submerged structures and dense vegetation, where they can hide during the daytime.

Sexing

Differentiating between male and female Spotted Pimelodus is difficult, as there are no clearly visible external differences between the sexes.

Breeding

There are currently no recorded instances of Pimelodus maculatus successfully breeding in home aquariums. In the wild, they are known to reproduce through spawning, releasing eggs that are fertilized externally.

Lifespan

With proper care, Pimelodus maculatus can live up to 8 years in captivity. Maintaining stable water conditions, providing a varied diet, and ensuring they have ample space to swim and hide will contribute to their longevity.

Tank Requirements and Behavior

As a bottom-dwelling species, Spotted Pimelodus thrive in tanks with a sandy or smooth gravel substrate. They require hiding spots, such as caves, driftwood, and dense plant coverage, to feel secure. Being nocturnal, they are most active during the night and may disturb other tank mates during this time. A tank size of at least 100 liters (25 gallons) is recommended to accommodate their active nature.

Suitable Tankmates

Although peaceful toward their own species, Pimelodus maculatus can be aggressive toward smaller fish, particularly at night. Therefore, they should only be housed with larger, robust tankmates, such as:

Severum Cichlids (Heros severus)
Silver Dollars (Metynnis spp.)
Firemouth Cichlids (Thorichthys meeki)
Clown Loaches (Chromobotia macracanthus)

Suitable Plants

Although not known to be plant eaters, Spotted Pimelodus appreciate well-planted aquariums that provide shade and hiding places. Some suitable plants include:

Amazon Sword (Echinodorus amazonicus)
Anubias (Anubias spp.)
Java Fern (Microsorum pteropus)
Hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum)
Cryptocoryne (Cryptocoryne spp.)

Short Description

The Spotted Pimelodus (Pimelodus maculatus) is a nocturnal bottom-dwelling catfish known for its adaptability and unique spotted pattern. Due to their predatory nature, they should be kept with larger fish that they cannot consume. Providing adequate hiding places, a well-balanced diet, and a spacious tank will ensure their well-being. Regular monitoring of water quality is crucial, as they can be sensitive to fluctuations.