Silver Catfish - (Rhamdia quelen)

🐟 Silver Catfish – (Rhamdia quelen) – Hardy South American Catfish

The Silver Catfish, also known as the South American Catfish or Jundiá, is a hardy, adaptable freshwater species native to rivers, lakes, and reservoirs throughout South America. Recognized for its elongated body, whisker-like barbels, and silver-gray coloration, this nocturnal predator is valued both as a game fish and, occasionally, in the aquarium trade.

This species is known for its fast growth rate and ability to tolerate a wide range of environmental conditions, making it a resilient choice for very large aquariums or warm-water pond setups.

🔎 Quick Facts – Silver Catfish (Rhamdia quelen)

• 📛 Common Names: Silver Catfish, South American Catfish, Jundiá
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Rhamdia quelen
• 🌍 Origin: South America – widely distributed from Argentina to Central America
• 🎨 Appearance: Slender, elongated body; silver-gray to brown coloration; long barbels around mouth
• 📏 Max Size: 20–24 inches (50–60 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Occasionally available in the aquarium trade

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Predatory – will eat smaller fish and invertebrates
• 🌙 Primarily nocturnal, more active at night
• 🛡 Hardy and adaptable
• ⚠️ Needs tankmates too large to be eaten

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 180+ gallons (larger preferred)
• 🌊 Strong filtration, moderate current
• 🪵 Provide driftwood, caves, and hiding places
• 💡 Dim to moderate lighting to mimic natural habitat

💧 Water Parameters – Silver Catfish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 68–82°F (20–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.0–8.0
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🐟 Fresh or frozen fish and shrimp
• 🪱 Earthworms, mealworms
• 🦐 Crustaceans
• 🍖 High-quality carnivore pellets

📋 Silver Catfish Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The Silver Catfish is a resilient and powerful predator that can thrive in a range of environments, making it suitable for very large aquariums or tropical ponds—provided its size and predatory nature are fully accommodated.