Margay Pencil Catfish - (Trichomycterus maracaya)

🐟 Margay Pencil Catfish – (Trichomycterus maracaya) – Rare Freshwater Catfish for Sale

The Margay Pencil Catfish (Trichomycterus maracaya) is a slender, streamlined freshwater catfish from Brazil, admired for its elongated pencil-like body and subtle, earthy coloration. This species is a fascinating addition for aquarists seeking something unique, as it is active, hardy, and peaceful in nature.

🔎 Quick Facts – Margay Pencil Catfish

• 📛 Common Name: Margay Pencil Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Trichomycterus maracaya
• 🌍 Origin: Brazil – Upper Paraná River basin
• 🎨 Appearance: Long, slender body with sandy-brown to olive coloration, faint mottling along the sides
• 📏 Max Size: 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Unique South American catfish for sale

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🤝 Peaceful and suitable for community tanks with small to medium fish
• 🏃 Active bottom-dweller, enjoys exploring fine sand and gravel
• 🕵️ Shy at first but becomes more visible in a well-decorated aquarium
• 🚫 Avoid aggressive tankmates that may outcompete for food

🏠 Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons
• 🌿 Soft sandy substrate to protect barbels
• 🪵 Provide hiding spots with driftwood, rocks, and leaf litter
• 🌊 Gentle to moderate water flow
• 💡 Low to moderate lighting

💧 Water Parameters

• 🌡️ Temperature: 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Water Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet (Carnivorous)

• 🐛 Frozen or live bloodworms, blackworms, and brine shrimp
• 🍤 Sinking carnivore pellets
• 🪱 Occasional insect larvae and micro-pellets

📋 Overview Table – Margay Pencil Catfish Care

✨ Highlight:
The Margay Pencil Catfish offers a slender, elegant profile and peaceful behavior, making it a great choice for aquarists who enjoy keeping uncommon South American species.