Edit Sperata aor
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Name
Scientific name
Sperata aor
Described by
Not recorded
Family
Bagridae
Common names
Indian Shovelnose Catfish
Photograph credits
All 3 credited
Summary
The Indian shovelnose catfish, Sperata aor, is a large bagrid catfish from India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh and Myanmar. Named for its fl…
Size and aquarium
Maximum size
1800mm, standard length
Aquarium size
Minimum length 720 cm, Minimum depth 180 cm, Minimum height 360 cm
Water
Water conditions
Temperature 20–25°C, pH 6–7
Hardness
5–15dGH
Conductivity
Not recorded
Behaviour
Temperament
Territorial
Social needs
Not recorded
Community suitability
Not for a community
Where it lives
Countries, regions, rivers and lakes
Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan
Writing
Etymology
Not written yet
Distribution
India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar.
Habitat
It inhabits both still and flowing bodies of water, including lakes, ponds, reservoirs and rivers.
Aquarium size
A fully grown specimen would require a truly enormous aquarium. Something in the region of 720 ∗ 180 ∗ 360 cm - ~46656 litres, would be considered the bare min…
Maintenance
Because the fish grows so huge, aquarium decor provides a challenge. Very large pieces of driftwood, or enormous rocks can be used, and should be arranged to p…
Water conditions
Temperature: 20 – 25 °C pH: 6.0-7.0 Hardness: 5-15°H
Diet
It is quite an unfussy feeder, and will accept dried pelleted, live, and meaty frozen foods. Larger specimens can be offered whole fresh or frozen fish, such a…
Behaviour and compatibility
Not only will it eat any fish it can fit in its capacious mouth, but it is territorial with its own kind, and is thus best kept alone in all but the very large…
Sexual dimorphism
Adult females tend to be rounder in the belly than males. Males also possess quite a long genital papilla located just in front of the anal fin.
Reproduction
Not thought to have been achieved in captivity. Reports suggest that the fish exhibit a remarkable breeding behaviour in nature, in which the eggs are incubate…
Notes
This "shovelnose" is unique amongst bagrids, but superficially resembles several unrelated South American catfish species. It's common name is derived from it'…
References
References
No references