Edit Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
You can suggest changes to this profile. A moderator will review each change.
Name
Scientific name
Pangasianodon hypophthalmus
Described by
Bracketed
Family
Pangasiidae
Common names
Iridescent Shark Catfish
Photograph credits
All 3 credited
Summary
The iridescent shark catfish, Pangasionodon hypophthalmus, is a pangasiid catfish from the lower Mekong in Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vie…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
1300mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Not recorded
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 22–26°C, pH 6.5–7.5
Hardness
Not recorded
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Not recorded
Social needs
A shoal or group
Community suitability
Not recorded
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Not recorded
Writing
Etymology
Not written yet
Distribution
Native to the lower Mekong river running through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. It's also found in the Chao Phraya river in Thailand. Most of the fish a…
Habitat
It's a pelagic species inhabiting main river channels and larger tributaries.
Aquarium size
Unsuitable for all but the very largest tanks. It's a very active open water species and tends to be skittish when kept in cramped conditions. This can lead to…
Maintenance
Strictly speaking, decor isn't necessary for a tank containing an adult, provided the lighting is fairly dim. You can however add some large chunks of bogwood,…
Water conditions
Temperature: 22 – 26 °C pH: 6.5 to 7.5 Hardness: As the species' natural waters are subject to annual flooding, water parameters can vary considerably over the…
Diet
It's omnivorous, although a juvenile will require a good amount of protein in the diet in order for it to develop and grow at the correct rate. Offer a varied …
Behaviour and compatibility
Not an aggressive species, but much smaller tankmates will likely be consumed. It can also bother sedentary or shy companions with its constant activity, but c…
Sexual dimorphism
Supposedly females are stockier and have lighter patterning than males. At the size it's usually seen for sale these differences are impossible to detect.
Reproduction
It's a migratory species, moving upstream to spawn during the late spring and summer months. Obviously these conditions are virtually impossible to replicate i…
Notes
Previously referred to as Pangasius sutchi, this is the commonest of the Pangasiid catfish seen in the aquatic trade. It's usually seen for sale as a cute silv…
References
References
No references