Rhinodoras Catfish (8”)

Scientific Name

Rhinodoras dorbignyi/sp

Maximum Size and Lifespan

• Size: Up to 10–12 inches (25–30 cm) in captivity, slightly larger in the wild.

• Lifespan: Around 10–15 years with proper care.

Recommended Aquarium Size, Water Changes, and Care

• Tank Size: At least 75 gallons (340 liters) for a single specimen, larger for a group. These are large-bodied catfish with active bottom-dwelling habits.

• Water Changes: 25–40% weekly to maintain water quality and reduce waste buildup, as they are heavy feeders.

• Water Parameters:

  • Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C)

  • pH: 6.0–7.5
    

• They require strong filtration, plenty of swimming space, and a sandy or fine substrate to prevent barbel damage. Provide driftwood, caves, and shaded areas for security.

Tankmates

• Compatible: Other medium to large peaceful fish such as Severums, Geophagus, larger tetras, silver dollars, and other robust Central/South American cichlids, peacock bass, arowana, other armored catfish and plecos.

• Avoid: Very small fish (may be eaten), overly aggressive species, or fin-nippers.

Diet

• Omnivorous: In the wild, they feed on insect larvae, small crustaceans, detritus, and plant matter.

• In Aquaria:

  • Sinking pellets and wafers

  • Frozen  bloodworms and shrimp
    

• Feed in the evening as they are mostly nocturnal.

Overview

The Rhinodoras Catfish is a hardy, medium-to-large South American doradid catfish admired for its peaceful temperament and armored body plates. Its nocturnal habits make it an interesting aquarium inhabitant, often hiding during the day and becoming active after lights out. With proper care, space, and a good diet, it becomes a long-lived and rewarding species for large community aquariums.

Natural Environment

• Habitat: Found in slow-moving rivers, floodplain lakes, and streams throughout the Amazon and Paraná river basins.

• Environment: Muddy or sandy bottoms with plenty of submerged roots, branches, and leaf litter that provide cover. Water is usually warm, slightly acidic to neutral, and rich in organic matter.

Breeding

• Breeding Rhinodoras in captivity is extremely rare and not well-documented.

• In the wild, they are seasonal spawners tied to flood cycles, where rising water levels stimulate reproduction.

• No confirmed aquarium spawning records exist, and most available specimens are wild-caught.

• To encourage breeding, a large group and simulated rainy season (lowering water temperature, followed by gradual warming and heavy water changes) may be required, but success has not been widely reported.