Sturisoma aureum(Giant Whiptail, Golden Whiptail)

A spectacular whiptail catfish noted for its tall dorsal fin as well as its large size. Basic colour is wood brown, with dark bands and blotches on the sides of the head and body. Sexual dimorphism is slight. Males have bushy spines on the cheeks, but these are only obvious on mature fish.

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Fish information (behaviour and breeding):

Completely peaceful, very nocturnal and rather inactive, this species is an excellent community tank resident but must be kept away from nippy or aggressive tankmates. Mixes perfectly with cardinal tetras, rasboras, Corydoras and hatchetfish. Because it is a slow feeder, it cannot be combined with other algae-eating catfish, such as plecs or bristlenose catfish.

Maintenance of this fish is difficult. Apart from green algae, this fish needs algae wafers, mashed tinned peas, Sushi Nori, sliced cucumber and other soft green foods. Water quality must be extremely good. This species is intolerant of nitrite and ammonia, and nitrate must be less than 25 mg/l. Also needs lots of oxygen. Supplementary filtration and aeration are recommended, as this species naturally inhabits fast-flowing water. Do not keep in overstocked aquaria.

Sturisoma aureum has been bred in aquaria. Water chemistry isn't critical, though slightly soft to moderately hard, neutral water is preferred. The male guards the spawn

Family Group:	Catfish
Distribution	South America: endemic to Colombia
Temperature	25-28 C
Size	Around 20 cm
Water Parameters	Slightly soft to hard; 5-20 degrees dH
Water PH	6.0-8.0
Water Chemistry	Adaptable
Care Level	Difficult
Schooling Fish	No
Sociability	Peaceful
Diet	Special Needs

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Shop stock

The latest shops to have this fish in stock are listed below. Click on a shop name for full shop details, or click the link below the shops to view ALL shops that stock this fish.

	Abacus Aquatics	Kent	DA15 8DJ
	Maidenhead Aquatics@ Rutland	Oakham, Rutland	LE15 7QB
	Aquatic Design Centre	London	SW12 0PS

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