African Debawi Catfish (2.5”)

Scientific Name
Pareutropius debauwi

Maximum Size & Lifespan

• Size: Up to about 4".

• Lifespan: Typically 5–8 years with good care.

Aquarium Size, Water Changes & General Care

• Recommended Aquarium Size: A minimum of 20-30 gallons is best, as this species is very active and does best in shoals. 

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 23–26 °C (73–82 °F)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5
    

• Care Requirements: They require clean, well-oxygenated water with some current, so good filtration and moderate flow are important. Dim lighting with floating plants helps them feel secure. Provide a sandy or fine gravel substrate with driftwood, smooth stones, and patches of live plants.

• Water Changes: Perform 25–30% water changes once weekly to maintain stable, high-quality water.

Tankmates

• Temperament: Peaceful schooling fish. They must be kept in groups of at least 4-6+ individuals, preferably 10 or more, or they become shy and stressed.

• Compatible Tankmates: Other peaceful species such as small African tetras, rummynose, corydoras, peaceful loaches, dwarf cichlids, and otocinclus.

• Avoid: Large, aggressive, or predatory species that may see them as food or outcompete them.

Diet

• Diet Type: Omnivorous with a preference for meaty foods.

• In the Aquarium: They will readily eat high-quality flakes, micro pellets, and granules. Supplement regularly with frozen foods such as bloodworms and brine shrimp ,

• Feeding Frequency: Small feedings 1-2 times daily

Overview

The Debauwi Catfish (Pareutropius debauwi) is a slender, semi-transparent catfish known for its shoaling behavior and graceful swimming. Unlike many bottom-dwelling catfish, they spend much of their time in the mid-water regions of the tank. They thrive in well-structured aquariums with both open swimming areas and planted zones for cover. Their peaceful, active nature makes them a great choice for community setups, provided they are kept in proper numbers.

Natural Environment

In the wild, Debauwi Catfish are found in Central Africa, particularly in rivers and tributaries of the Congo Basin, Gabon, and Angola. They inhabit moderately flowing rivers, streams, and floodplains, often schooling in large groups in open water. Their natural diet consists of small invertebrates, insect larvae, crustaceans, and occasional plant material.

Breeding

• Breeding Difficulty: Rare in captivity but possible.

• Method: They are egg scatterers. In the wild, breeding often coincides with rainy seasons when rivers flood.

• In Captivity: Use a separate breeding tank with soft, slightly acidic water (pH ~6.5–7.0), temperature around 26–27 °C (78–80 °F), and dense fine-leaved plants or spawning mops. Condition adults with plenty of live and frozen food.

• Spawning: A female may release up to 100 small eggs, usually early in the morning. Parents do not guard the eggs and will eat them, so eggs should be removed or protected.

• Raising Fry: Eggs hatch in ~72 hours, and fry become free-swimming a few days later. Start them on microworms or newly hatched brine shrimp until large enough for crushed flakes.