Tigrinus Catfish - (Brachyplatystoma tigrinum)

Fish Details, Description and Information Below:

🐟 Tigrinus Catfish – (Brachyplatystoma tigrinum) – Striking South American Predator Catfish for Sale

The Tigrinus Catfish (Brachyplatystoma tigrinum) is a rare and highly sought-after South American predatory catfish known for its bold black-and-white tiger-like striping. Native to the fast-flowing waters of the Amazon and Orinoco River basins, this sleek, powerful species can grow over two feet in length and requires a large aquarium or indoor pond. Its long, slender body, forked tail, and distinctive pattern make it a showpiece for advanced predator fish keepers.

🔎 Quick Facts – Tigrinus Catfish (Brachyplatystoma tigrinum)

📛 Common Name: Tigrinus Catfish, Zebra Shovelnose Catfish
🔬 Scientific Name: Brachyplatystoma tigrinum
🌍 Origin: Amazon and Orinoco River Basins – Brazil, Colombia, Peru
🎨 Appearance: Slender silver-white body with bold black vertical stripes; long forked tail and barbels
📏 Max Size: 24–30 inches (60–76 cm)
💎 Availability: Rare; prized by large predatory fish enthusiasts

😇 Behavior & Temperament

⚔️ Aggressive predator toward smaller fish
🐟 Best kept as a single specimen or with similarly sized predators
🌊 Active midwater and bottom-dweller; requires strong water movement

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

📦 Minimum Tank Size: 300+ gallons or indoor pond
🪵 Large open swimming areas with minimal sharp décor
🌊 Requires strong filtration and high oxygenation to mimic river habitat
💡 Moderate lighting to highlight striping

💧 Water Parameters – Tigrinus Catfish Care

🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
⚗️ pH: 6.0–7.5
💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous Predator

🐟 Whole fish, shrimp, and squid
🦐 Frozen or fresh prawns and silversides
🚫 Avoid feeder fish to reduce disease risk
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📋 Tigrinus Catfish Overview Table

Feature	Details
🌍 Origin	Amazon & Orinoco River Basins – Brazil, Colombia, Peru
📏 Max Size	24–30 inches
😇 Temperament	Aggressive predator
🏠 Tank Size	300+ gallons or pond
⚗️ pH Range	6.0–7.5
🌡️ Temperature	75–82°F
🍽️ Diet	Carnivorous – fish, shrimp, squid
🎯 Ideal For	Large predator aquariums, expert keepers

✨ Highlight:
The Tigrinus Catfish is a stunning, large, and powerful predator with bold tiger-like striping, making it a centerpiece for experienced aquarists with very large aquariums or indoor ponds.