Anteater Catfish - (Conorhynchos Conirostris)

🐟 Anteater Catfish – (Conorhynchos conirostris)

The Anteater Catfish (Conorhynchos conirostris) is a rare and fascinating South American species known for its elongated, anteater-like snout and calm, shy nature. This species is native to the Rio São Francisco basin in Brazil, where it inhabits large river systems with steady flow and sandy or muddy substrates.

⚠️ Legal Status & Conservation

🚫 Endangered Species – This fish is considered at risk in its native range.
🇧🇷 Brazil Export Ban – It is illegal to export this species from Brazil.
⚖️ Important: Even if a neighboring country claims to export them, specimens originating from Brazil may still be illegally sourced.

💡 Key Note: Importing or possessing wildlife that was exported in violation of another country’s laws can create serious legal risk. Authorities such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) may seize specimens if they are determined to have been illegally obtained or imported.

🌊 Tank Setup

🏠 Tank Size: Minimum 300 gallons due to its large adult size and active swimming behavior
🌿 Aquascape: Driftwood, rocks, caves for cover + open swimming areas
💨 Flow: Moderate to strong flow to mimic river conditions
🪨 Substrate: Sand or fine gravel preferred

🍽️ Diet

🍽️ Omnivore
✔️ Sinking pellets & wafers
✔️ Frozen foods (bloodworms, shrimp)
✔️ Occasional live foods

⚖️ Temperament

🐠 Peaceful & shy
✔️ Best with non-aggressive, larger community fish
✔️ Avoid aggressive or highly territorial tankmates

🧠 Behavior & Care

🌙 Nocturnal – most active at night
🪵 Bottom-dweller – hides during the day
📏 Size: Up to 22 inches (55 cm)
🧪 Water Temp: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
💧 pH: 6.0–7.5

📋 At a Glance

🔖 Scientific Name: Conorhynchos conirostris
🐟 Common Name: Anteater Catfish
🌎 Origin: Rio São Francisco Basin, Brazil
📏 Size: Up to 22 inches (55 cm)
🌡️ Temperature: 72–79°F (22–26°C)
💧 pH Range: 6.0–7.5
🐠 Temperament: Peaceful, shy
🏠 Tank Size: 300+ gallons
🍽️ Diet: Omnivore
🎯 Experience Level: Intermediate

🌟 The Anteater Catfish is an incredibly rare Brazilian species—best appreciated responsibly, with attention to both ethical sourcing and proper large-tank care.