Tiger Shovelnose Catfish Blog

The Tiger Shovelnose Catfish is a large powerful freshwater catfish known for its striking pattern massive size and predatory nature. Native to South American river systems this species is highly sought after by experienced aquarists who keep monster fish. Its bold appearance and impressive growth rate make it a true showpiece in very large aquariums or ponds.

Appearance and Coloration

Tiger Shovelnose Catfish have long muscular bodies with a wide flattened head and an elongated shovel shaped snout. Their body is decorated with dark tiger like stripes or blotches over a light silver to cream background. This pattern becomes more dramatic as the fish matures. Long barbels extend from the mouth helping the fish navigate and locate food. Adults develop a thick powerful tail and can look extremely imposing.

Tank Size and Setup

This species grows very large and requires an enormous tank to thrive. A minimum of 300 gallons is recommended for juveniles with adults needing significantly larger aquariums or indoor ponds. The tank should provide wide open swimming space with minimal decorations. Use smooth driftwood or large rocks if decor is added but avoid anything sharp. Strong filtration and high water turnover are absolutely necessary due to their size and waste production.

Water Parameters

Tiger Shovelnose Catfish are hardy but do best in clean stable water. Ideal temperature ranges from 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer neutral to slightly acidic water with moderate hardness. Frequent water changes and powerful filtration are essential to maintain water quality and prevent health issues.

Diet and Feeding

Tiger Shovelnose Catfish are carnivorous and very aggressive feeders. In the wild they consume fish crustaceans and other meaty foods. In captivity they should be fed high quality carnivore pellets sinking sticks shrimp fish fillets mussels and other prepared meaty foods. Live feeder fish are not recommended due to disease risk. Feed juveniles daily and adults several times per week depending on size.

Temperament and Behavior

This catfish is aggressive predatory and territorial especially as it grows. Any fish small enough to fit in its mouth will be eaten. It is mostly active during low light periods but becomes bolder in captivity. Despite its aggression it can coexist with other very large robust fish if enough space is provided.

Tank Mates

Tank mates must be large powerful and non aggressive enough to avoid constant fighting. Suitable companions may include large arowanas pacu stingrays large plecos and other monster catfish. All tank mates should be similar in size and temperament. Overcrowding must be avoided to reduce stress and aggression.

Breeding Information

Breeding Tiger Shovelnose Catfish in home aquariums is extremely rare. They are river spawners that require massive space and specific environmental triggers. Most specimens available in the aquarium trade are wild caught or farm raised at a young age. Breeding is generally not attempted by hobbyists.

Conclusion

The Tiger Shovelnose Catfish is not suitable for most home aquariums and should only be kept by highly experienced aquarists with access to very large tanks or ponds. When given the proper space diet and water quality this species can become an incredible long term display fish. Its size power and tiger patterned body make it one of the most impressive freshwater catfish available in the aquarium hobby.