Overview

Banjo Catfish are flattened, leaf-like catfish that hide in the substrate. The stock name does not confirm an exact species, so this product is identified as Bunocephalus sp.; the guidance below covers the commonly traded B. coracoideus-type banjo.

Behaviour

Mostly nocturnal and easily overlooked during daylight. Common banjos reach around 15 cm; plan for this adult size. They can be kept singly or with their own kind.

Tank Size

Our recommended minimum is 90 litres with an 80 × 35 cm footprint for one or two common banjos. A wide base and usable sand area matter most.

Compatibility

Usually peaceful with tetras and other non-aggressive fish. Avoid boisterous feeders that take every sinking meal. Compatibility and final size should be reassessed if the supplier confirms a different species.

Diet

Place sinking carnivore pellets or thawed bloodworm near its resting area after lights out. Check with a dim light that it actually feeds; daytime invisibility does not mean it can survive without food.

Care

For the common banjo, maintain 24–26°C, pH 6.0–7.5 and 2–20 dGH. Provide soft sand, wood and shaded hiding places. Locate buried fish before siphoning. Test ammonia and nitrite at zero; change 25–30% weekly. Confirm exact species before combining with specialist setups.

Live Animals Are Click and Collect Only. Order online for collection at Newlands Home & Garden Centre, Clondalkin. We do not ship live fish.