Striped Raphael Cat

Striped Raphael Cat
(Platyodras armatulus)

QUICK STATS
Minimum Tank Size: 30 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Peaceful
Water Conditions: KH 4-20, pH 6.0-7.5
Max. Size: 7"
Color Form: Brown, Tan
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Colombia
Family: Doradidae

The Striped Raphael Cat is a popular "larger" catfish full of desirable characteristics. The curious tadpole-like body shape and bold black and white stripes make the Striped Raphael Cat a visually striking fish. Inquisitive by nature, the peaceful Striped Raphael Cat is full of personality and a pleasure to observe when active. Hardy and easy to care for, this armored catfish sports an impressive set of chainsaw-like spines running along its lateral line. Pronounced, dagger-like dorsal and pectoral fins add to the arsenal of formidable defenses the Striped Raphael Cat has against predators. Due to these thorny defensive spines, extreme care should be used when netting the Striped Raphael Cat to prevent ensnarement.
The Striped Raphael Cat and other members of the Doradid family of armored catfish are often referred to as "talking catfish." When threatened, they produce a guttural croak or a series of percussive squeaks designed to intimidate. Thanks to its many defensive traits, the Striped Raphael Cat is mild-mannered yet confident in its endeavors. This peaceful catfish does well in aquariums 30 gallons or larger. The Striped Raphael Cat does equally well in community aquariums with peaceful inhabitants and aquariums housing larger more aggressive fish. Since the Striped Raphael Cat is nocturnal be sure to provide ample daytime refuge. A planted aquarium aquascaped with driftwood and rock to provide caves overhangs and tunnels create a great home for the Striped Raphael Cat.

Offer a variety of foods, including sinking pellets and small freeze-dried and frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp.

from www.liveaquaria.com