Chocolate Doradid

Acanthodoras cataphractus is one of the small-growing members of the talking catfish family (Doradidae). Its chocolate-brown body is patterned with pale cream blotches; it carries spiny bony plates on its flanks and strong spines in its pectoral fins. By rubbing these spines it produces creaking sounds. Adults stay at around 10 cm, which makes it one of the species in the family best suited to medium-sized aquariums.

• At least 100 liters for one to three individuals.
• Root hollows, caves and pipes; it likes to wedge itself into tight gaps.
• Soft sand and dried leaves; it occasionally buries itself in the sand.
• 22–27°C, pH 6.0–7.5; dim light.

Omnivorous. It eats sinking tablets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, mysis and vegetable tablets. Offer food after the lights go out.

Very peaceful and shy; it also gets along with its own kind. Because its mouth is small, only fry and very small invertebrates are at risk. Its hooked plates get caught in nets; catch it with a container and avoid handling it.

Good companions: tetras, rasboras, peaceful barbs, dwarf cichlids, corydoras, gouramis.

Avoid: aggressive cichlids and large predators whose mouths it would fit into.