Tiger Shovelnose

Tiger Shovelnose  is a fascinating freshwater fish that aquarists have been interested in for a long time. They are one of our favorite large fish to keep because of their unique appearance!

The waters of South America are home to the pseudoplatystoma fasciatum, or tiger shovelnose catfish. They are usually found in the deepest parts of big rivers, where they can move around freely and find food (mostly other fish).

These fish usually prefer areas with a little more shade. There will frequently be a lot of vegetation present in these waters, and finding them in overflowed woodlands consequently too is normal.

The tiger shovelnose navigates the murky waters it inhabits with its barbels. This enables them to comprehend not only their destination but also the location of their prey.

These fish are prized by local fishermen for their size and flavor.

I. Size

• Average Adult Size: 2.5
• Maximum Adult Size: 3 ft
• Swimming Level: Bottom

II. You would love the fish because…

Tiger shovelnose catfish first and foremost stand out because of their appearance.

These fish have a long, wide, and flat mouth, as their name suggests. They are able to consume prey and, if necessary, skim the riverbed thanks to this excellent design.

In a tank, a tiger shovelnose catfish has rather long barbels that protrude slightly forward from the front of their mouth. These assist them in finding their way through choppy waters.

These fish’s dorsal fins are average in size and have a shape resembling a shell. Tiger shovelnose catfish have black spots on their forked caudal fins. Their pectoral and anal fins share a similar pattern and are on the smaller side.

Their body is a dark silver color with large black stripes that usually run vertically from front to back. Because these fish are also spotted, you will frequently observe spots in various locations in between the stripes.

III. Is this fish species peaceful or hostile?

• Recommended: 1
• Overall hostility:  Little temperamental
• Hostility towards own species: Little temperamental
• Hostility towards other Species: Little temperamental

IV. Species compatibility

• Stingrays
• Pacu
• Arowanas
• Adult Plecostomus
• Umbees
• Peacock Bass
• Oscars
• Other large fish.

V. How to feed this species?

It should come as no surprise that feeding a redtail catfish is as simple as it gets. As long as it contains some meat, these catfish will eat anything that enters the water! The majority of aquarists feed their fish from a prepared pellet food formula, which is an excellent starting point.

Recommended food

• Hikari Sinking Carnivore

• Optimum Micro Pellet Fish Food for All Life Stages

Word for the wise

Aquarium Lid

Live Plants

Driftwood

Rocks

Live, frozen food

Aquarium Starter Kit

Filter

Heater

Thermometer

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Disclaimer for Individual fish prices