How difficult is it to keep Striped Raphael Catfish?

Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.

What is the ideal temperature for Striped Raphael Catfish?

The ideal temperature for Striped Raphael Catfish is 24〜30℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the lifespan of Striped Raphael Catfish?

The average lifespan of Striped Raphael Catfish is 8-12 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does Striped Raphael Catfish get?

Striped Raphael Catfish typically reaches 24-43cm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed Striped Raphael Catfish?

Striped Raphael Catfish feeds on: Sinking tablets and pellets, frozen bloodworm, earthworms. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for Striped Raphael Catfish?

The price of Striped Raphael Catfish varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

Striped Raphael Catfish

Intermediate

Platydoras armatulus

A South American catfish marked by a white stripe along each flank and rows of bony, spined plates. It creaks its pectoral spines audibly and grows large enough to need a big tank for life.

Difficulty

Intermediate

Temperature

24〜30℃

Lifespan

8-12 years

Size

24-43cm

Diet

Sinking tablets and pellets, frozen bloodworm, earthworms

About

Platydoras armatulus is a doradid catfish of the Paraná River basin. A single white band runs from head to tail over a dark brown body, and rows of spined bony plates line each flank. It produces audible creaks by grinding its pectoral spines in their sockets; those spines can also pierce a hand, so move it in a container rather than a net. FishBase records a maximum of 43cm SL, while Seriously Fish gives 24cm. Seriously Fish recommends a 120 x 30cm tank (about 108 litres) at 24-30C, pH 5.8-7.5 and 2-20 dGH. Its temperament is entirely unaggressive, but it will eat fish small enough to swallow, so choose deep-bodied medium or large tank mates. It hides among driftwood by day and forages at night. There are no reports of breeding in the hobby.

Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)

Lifespan of the Striped Raphael Catfish

The Striped Raphael Catfish lives 8-12 years.

Size of the Striped Raphael Catfish

The Striped Raphael Catfish grows to 24-43cm.

Temperature & humidity for the Striped Raphael Catfish

The ideal temperature for the Striped Raphael Catfish is 24〜30℃.

Basic Info

Origin

South America: Paraná River basin

Lifespan

8-12 years

Size

Care Specifications

pH: 5.8–7.5
Hardness (GH): 2–20 dGH
Water Temp.: 24–30℃
Min. Tank: 108 L

PeacefulBreeding: Very hard

Sources: Seriously Fish / FishBase

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Platydoras armatulus Valenciennes, 1840

Authority databases: FishBase

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listedIUCN LC · Least Concern

Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / FishBase (IUCN assessment: LC)

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.