Unicorn Catfish - (Ageneiosus magoi)

🐟 Unicorn Catfish – (Ageneiosus magoi) – Rare South American Driftwood Catfish

The Unicorn Catfish (Ageneiosus magoi) is a rare and distinctive driftwood catfish species from South America, notable for its elongated, streamlined body and the horn-like extension on its snout, which gives it its “unicorn” name. This unique predatory catfish is found in river systems with submerged wood and sandy bottoms, where it hunts smaller fish and invertebrates. Sleek, fast-swimming, and highly predatory, the Unicorn Catfish is a fascinating choice for experienced aquarists seeking an unusual and aggressive show fish.

🔎 Quick Facts – Unicorn Catfish (Ageneiosus magoi)

• 📛 Common Name: Unicorn Catfish
• 🔬 Scientific Name: Ageneiosus magoi
• 🌍 Origin: South America – Orinoco River Basin (Venezuela)
• 🎨 Appearance: Slender, torpedo-shaped body with a horn-like snout extension; silver to bronze coloration
• 📏 Max Size: 12–14 inches (30–36 cm)
• 💎 Availability: Very rare in the aquarium trade; prized by predatory fish collectors

😇 Behavior & Temperament

• ⚔️ Aggressive predator; will eat any fish that fits in its mouth
• 🌙 Nocturnal hunter, but may adapt to daytime feedings
• 🐟 Best kept alone or with similarly sized, robust tankmates

🏠 Aquarium & Tank Requirements

• 📦 Minimum Tank Size: 125+ gallons
• 🪵 Provide driftwood and large hiding spaces for daytime shelter
• 🌊 Moderate to strong water flow to mimic river currents
• 💡 Dim lighting to encourage natural behavior

💧 Water Parameters – Unicorn Catfish Care

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Hardness: Soft to moderately hard water

🍽️ Diet – Carnivorous

• 🐟 Prefers live or frozen fish, shrimp, and large worms
• 🦐 Can be trained to take frozen silversides, prawns, and other meaty foods
• 🚫 Avoid keeping with small or slow-moving fish

📋 Unicorn Catfish Overview Table

✨ Highlight:
The Unicorn Catfish is a rare predatory driftwood catfish with a distinctive horn-like snout — a sleek, powerful showpiece for large, specialized aquariums.