TankBud

Firewood catfish

Sorubimichthys planiceps

Also known as Firewood shovelnose catfish, Planiceps catfish, Flatnose shovelnose

FreshwaterFish

Firewood catfish (Sorubimichthys planiceps)

Care at a glance

Temperature
72–82°F
22–28°C
pH
6.0–7.5
Adult size
59.1 in
150 cm
Minimum tank
793 gal
3,000 L
Temperament
Mostly peaceful
Social behavior
Solitary
Tankmates
With caution
Swim level
Bottom
Diet
Carnivore
Difficulty
Difficult
Breeding
No record
Rarity
Rare
Family
Pimelodidae
Origin
Native to the Amazon and Orinoco river basins of South America.

Overview

The firewood catfish is a true monster shovelnose that lives for many years. It is only for experienced keepers with room for a huge tank.

Did you know

The firewood catfish's markings look just like the grain and knots of a split log, which is where its name comes from. The camouflage breaks up its outline in the dappled light of a big river.

Caring for the firewood catfish

The firewood catfish needs an enormous tank of at least 793 gal (3,000 L), effectively a pond or a huge custom build. It is a strong, active swimmer, so give it long, open swimming lanes over a soft floor. Fit a secure lid.

Keep the water clean, warm and soft to neutral, at 72 to 82°F (22 to 28°C) and a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Feed whole fish, prawns and large sinking foods.

It is not especially aggressive, but it is a committed fish-eater that runs down other fish. Any tank mate small enough to swallow will be eaten. House it only with very large companions.

Good to know

Sorubimichthys planiceps is the only species in its genus. Its long, flattened, spade-shaped head and slim body are typical of the shovelnose catfish group.

In the wild

The firewood catfish is a giant shovelnose of the Amazon and Orinoco. It cruises open river channels and hunts fish at night.

Common questions

What size tank does a firewood catfish need?

A firewood catfish needs at least 793 gal (3,000 L). It spends most of its time in the bottom.

What temperature and pH does a firewood catfish need?

A firewood catfish is comfortable at 72–82°F (22–28°C) with a pH of 6.0–7.5.

What does a firewood catfish eat?

A firewood catfish eats whole fish, prawns and large sinking foods. It is a committed fish-eater, and any tank mate small enough to swallow will be eaten.

How big does a firewood catfish get?

An adult firewood catfish reaches about 59.1 in (150 cm).

Related species