South American Hillstream Catfish - (Astroblepus chapmani)

🐟 South American Hillstream Catfish – (Astroblepus chapmani) – Rare Freshwater Sucker Catfish

The South American Hillstream Catfish (Astroblepus chapmani) is a rare and unique freshwater species native to the fast-flowing mountain streams of South America. Adapted to life in strong currents, it uses its specialized mouth to cling to rocks while grazing on algae and biofilm. Its streamlined body, flattened underside, and strong fins make it an expert at navigating high-flow environments, much like its Asian hillstream loach counterparts, but from an entirely different region of the world.

This is an uncommon species in the aquarium hobby, making it a prized choice for experienced aquarists seeking something truly different.

🔎 Quick Facts – South American Hillstream Catfish (Astroblepus chapmani)

• 📛 Common Names: South American Hillstream Catfish, Astro Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Astroblepus chapmani
• 🌍 Origin: Mountain streams of South America (exact locality varies)
• 🎨 Appearance: Slender, mottled body with a flattened underside and large sucker mouth
• 📏 Max Size: 3–4 inches (7.5–10 cm)
• 💎 Rarity: Rarely seen in the aquarium trade

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• 🐟 Peaceful, prefers cooler, oxygen-rich waters
• 🪵 Clings to rocks and décor in strong currents
• 🌙 Primarily active during low light but will graze in daylight

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 20+ gallons
• 🌊 Requires strong water flow and high oxygen levels
• 🪨 Provide smooth rocks and surfaces for grazing
• 🌿 Can be kept in a river-style aquascape
• 💡 Moderate lighting to encourage algae growth for grazing

💧 Water Parameters – South American Hillstream Catfish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 68–75°F (20–24°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard

🍽️ Diet – Primarily Algae and Biofilm Feeder

• 🥬 Algae wafers and spirulina pellets
• 🪱 Occasional frozen foods like bloodworms and daphnia
• 🌿 Encouraged natural algae growth in the aquarium for grazing

📋 South American Hillstream Catfish Care Overview Table

✨ Highlight:

• The South American Hillstream Catfish offers aquarists the chance to keep a rare, current-loving sucker catfish that thrives in well-oxygenated, fast-moving water—a South American twist on the hillstream fish concept.