Gold Trunkhead Catfish - (Cryptarius truncatus)

🐟 Gold Trunkhead Catfish (Cryptarius truncatus)

The Gold Trunkhead Catfish is a unique catfish species found in Southeast Asia, notable for its robust body and golden to yellowish coloration. It inhabits brackish and freshwater environments and is appreciated by aquarists for its distinctive look and peaceful temperament.

🔍 Quick Facts

• 🆔 Common Name: Gold Trunkhead Catfish
• 🧬 Scientific Name: Cryptarius truncatus
• 🧬 Family: Ariidae
• 🌎 Origin: Southeast Asia — coastal rivers and estuaries
• 📏 Max Size: Up to 20 inches (50 cm)

🕊️ Behavior & Temperament

• 🕊️ Generally peaceful and bottom-dwelling
• 🐟 Nocturnal and shy during the day
• 🛑 Prefers to be kept with non-aggressive tankmates
• 🏞️ Adapted to both brackish and freshwater conditions

🏡 Tank Requirements

• 🛁 Minimum Tank Size: 125 gallons+ due to large size
• 🪵 Provide plenty of hiding spots with driftwood and rocks
• 💨 Moderate water flow with strong filtration
• 🌡️ Suitable for freshwater or mildly brackish setups

Water Parameters:

• 🌡️ Temperature: 75–82°F (24–28°C)
• ⚗️ pH: 6.5–7.5
• 💧 Moderate hardness, tolerant of some salinity

🍽️ Diet

• Carnivorous — feeds on small fish, crustaceans, and other meaty foods

📊 Overview Table

📝 Snippet

The Gold Trunkhead Catfish (Cryptarius truncatus) is a peaceful, nocturnal species native to Southeast Asia’s coastal rivers and estuaries. It grows large and thrives in spacious freshwater or brackish aquariums with plenty of hiding spots.