Tiger Shovelnose Catfish

   As an aquarist many hobbyist decide on the fish they keep based on the size of tank they have. Some people prefer smaller tanks with nano shrimp while others prefer massive tanks with monster fish. At Petzone we are known nationwide for our monster fish. Typically very large and aggressive predators monster fish are certainly in a league of their own. A long time favorite the Tiger Shovelnose catfish is a fantastic monster fish that is not very aggressive and can also be kept with other monster fish. Mainly nocturnal they are not picky eaters and will readily accept frozen food or sinking pellets. These catfish are slow growing and even though they can reach a maximum size of 3’-4’ they can be upsized in grow-out tanks accordingly. An adult specimen can be kept in a 200+ gallon tank.

  Tiger Shovelnose catfish also known as the Barred catfish are a long whiskered species native to Suriname, Corantijn and Essequibo. In their natural habitat they’re often found in the deepest areas of the large rivers where they have plenty of room to move freely and find food. Also a common delicacy for locals due to their tasty meat they can be found in many local markets (imagine a Tiger Shovelnose soup!). They appreciate well vegetated environments where they use their long barbells (whiskers) to feel around and navigate through the muddy waters. In the aquarium they will appreciate hiding in shaded areas and under logs, in a bare tank they may become skittish.

  Like the name suggest they have a striking tiger stripe pattern across the body with a billed shovel like nose. They use their shovel nose to dig through the mud and vegetation in search of small crustaceans and fish. It has been documented that for husbandry this catfish will make use of muddy banks and may be the only way they will comfortably breed. As well as muddy murky water for breeding a potential pair will need a massive tank of 300+ gallons. Even though they originate in South America the species has found its way to waters around the world with specimens even found in Africa. The spread of this fish across the globe has led to hybridization (Redtail/TigerHybrid) and thus new hybrid varieties exist mixed with Redtail catfish. The Tiger Shovelnose Catfish are one of the most stunning varieties of large catfish available and we have been honored to provide them for many years and will continue to for many years to come!