Scientific name: Dianema urostriatum

Common name: Flagtail catfish

Family: Callichthyidae

Usual size in fish tanks: 11 - 13 cm (4.33 - 5.12 inch)

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Recommended pH range for the species: 6 - 8

Recommended water hardness (dGH): 4 - 24°N (71.43 - 428.57ppm)

0°C 32°F30°C 86°F

Recommended temperature: 25 - 28 °C (77 - 82.4°F)

The way how these fish reproduce: Spawning

Where the species comes from: South America

Temperament to its own species: peaceful

Temperament toward other fish species: peaceful

Usual place in the tank: Bottom levels

Food and feeding

Adult specimens may see small fish like neon tetras as a meal; their staple diet should consist of quality flake or sinking catfish pellets.

Origin

South America; Flagtail catfish is found in the Amazon River basins in Brazil.

Sexing

Females tend to be broader than the males behind the pectoral fins.

Breeding

Flagtail catfish are very hard to breed but there are cases of it occurring in the aquarium. They use the same breeding patterns as Corydoras.

Lifespan

The expected life span for Dianema urostriatum is 10 years.

Short description

Dianema urostriatum are best kept in groups of at least 3 fish; they are great for community tanks as they are a very peaceful species. Normally they will occupy the middle section of the water but will feed from the bottom. Hiding places need to be provided but Flagtail catfish also require swimming spaces at the front of the tank.