Platydoras armatulus (Striped Raphael Catfish)

Platydoras armatulus, commonly known as the Striped Raphael Catfish, is a species of catfish that belongs to the family Doradidae. These fish are native to South America, particularly found in the Amazon River basin and its tributaries in countries like Brazil, Peru, and Colombia.

Here are some key characteristics and information about Platydoras armatulus:

1. Appearance:

   • The Striped Raphael Catfish has a distinctive appearance with a dark brown to black body covered in light yellow or white stripes, giving it a striped pattern.
   • They have an elongated body, and their dorsal and pectoral fins are equipped with strong spines.

2. Size:

   • Adult Striped Raphael Catfish can reach a size of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) in captivity, but they can grow larger in their natural habitat.

3. Habitat:

   • In their natural environment, these catfish are typically found in slow-moving waters, including rivers and tributaries with sandy or muddy substrates.
   • They are known to inhabit areas with submerged vegetation and prefer hiding spots such as roots, driftwood, or rocky formations.

4. Behavior:

   • Striped Raphael Catfish are nocturnal and generally more active during the night.
   • They are peaceful and generally get along well with other non-aggressive fish species. However, due to their spines, caution is advised when keeping them with other bottom-dwelling fish.

5. Diet:

   • These catfish are omnivores, and their diet consists of a variety of foods, including live or frozen foods such as worms, insects, and small crustaceans. They also accept high-quality sinking pellets.

6. Aquarium Care:

   • A suitable aquarium for Striped Raphael Catfish should have hiding spots like caves or PVC pipes, as they appreciate sheltered areas.
   • The water parameters should be kept stable, with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5 and a temperature between 75 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit (24 to 28 degrees Celsius).

7. Breeding:

   • Breeding Striped Raphael Catfish in captivity can be challenging, and there is limited information available about their reproductive behavior.

Before keeping any species of catfish, including the Striped Raphael Catfish, it's important to research their specific requirements and ensure that their needs are met in terms of water conditions, tank size, and compatibility with other tankmates. Always consider the ethical and responsible sourcing of aquarium fish to promote the well-being of the species.