Colombian Shark Catfish | Ariopsis seemanni
Choose the aquarium for the adult animal and its companions. A mature filter and stable, species-appropriate water conditions are essential.
At a Glance
| Origin & natural habitat |
Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Costa Rica; freshwater habitats. |
| Adult size |
Approximately 35 cm body length (excluding the tail fin). |
| Temperament |
Large active group fish; specialist brackish tank mates only |
| Activity |
Use a consistent light/dark cycle with sheltered resting places. |
| Social needs |
Choose companions sharing its adult size, water conditions and behaviour. |
Housing & Setup
Enclosure dimensions are length × depth × height unless stated otherwise. Plan for the adult animal; larger, suitably furnished housing is encouraged.
| Adult housing |
At least 240 × 60 cm of floor area, around 870 litres at 60 cm water depth. Add space and volume for companions, furnishings and the planned adult group. |
| Enclosure type |
Specialist aquarium with species-appropriate salinity. Confirm the current salinity and a safe transition plan with our aquatic team. |
| Temperature |
22–26°C |
| Water chemistry |
Adults need appropriately mineralised brackish to marine conditions. Agree salinity, acclimatisation and the eventual adult setup with our aquatic team before purchase. |
| Substrate |
Species-appropriate sand or smooth gravel; avoid sharp material around bottom-dwelling fish. |
| Furnishings & filtration |
Large, well-oxygenated brackish aquarium for adults; plan for increasing salinity as fish mature |
Behaviour & Compatibility
A large, active shoaling predator that may swallow small fish. Confirm an adult group and suitably large brackish/marine installation with our team; dorsal and pectoral spines require careful transport.
Feeding & Nutrition
Marine or brackish carnivore foods and suitable sinking pellets. Feed measured portions and remove leftovers to protect water quality. Feed measured portions rather than allowing food to accumulate; juveniles may need smaller, more frequent meals. Make sure bottom-dwelling or shy animals receive their share.
Routine Care
Check appetite, breathing, equipment and water temperature daily. Test water regularly; ammonia and nitrite must remain at zero. Make regular partial water changes using conditioned, temperature-matched water. Rinse biological filter media in removed tank water, preserving the filter bacteria.
Important Before Buying
Juveniles are sometimes supplied in less saline water. Confirm current salinity and a gradual, species-appropriate transition plan; freshwater juvenile housing is temporary.
Live Animals Are Click & Collect Only
We do not ship live animals. Order online and wait for confirmation that your animal is ready before collecting from Newlands Home and Garden Centre, Clondalkin, Dublin 22. Have the enclosure prepared and its conditions checked before collection.
