Fossil Cat
From Microcosm Aquarium Explorer
An Asian species that can deliver an excruciating, even fatal, sting. JJPhoto.dk
[edit] Overview
Sometimes referred to as the Asian Stinging Catfish, this eel-like species is a dangerous fish that can inflict an extremely painful sting, even at small sizes. (Sharp, venom-tipped barbs are found in its pectoral fins.)
Human fatalities have been reported. It is already banned in some states—avoid at all costs.
Family: Heteropneustes
Other common name(s):
- Stinging Catfish
- Asian Stinging Catfish
- Liver Catfish
Native range:
Habitat: Swamps, ditches, slow-moving streams and rivers. Sometimes found in brackishwater.
Maximum length: 30 cm (12 in)
Minimum aquarium size: 681 L (180 gal)
Water: Freshwater 21 °C (294 K, 70 °F) - 25 °C (298 K, 77 °F)
General swimming level: Bottom.
[edit] Feeding
Carnivore. Offer meaty foods. Adults will take feeder fish, earthworms, table/green shrimp.
[edit] Aquarium Compatibility
For large, specialized community tanks or species tanks only. A fish for expert catfish enthusiasts only.
[edit] Special Care
Handle with extreme care to avoid being stung.
Will come to the surface to breathe. Be sure aquarium is well covered to prevent escape. This fish can survive periods out of water and is known to slither from one body of water to another.
[edit] Breeding/Propagation
Lays demersal eggs in a nest in the substrate and exhibits extended parental care. Fry are reported to grow rapidly.
| Common name | Fossil Cat +, Stinging Catfish +, Asian Stinging Catfish +, and Liver Catfish + |
| Family | Heteropneustes + |
| Genus | Heteropneustes + |
| Image credit | JJ + |
| Maximum length | 12 in + |
| Minimum aquarium size | 180 gal + |
| Native range | Pakistan +, Sri Lanka +, Myanmar +, and India + |
| Reference | 101 Best Tropical Fishes + |
| Specific name | fossilis + |
| Swimming level | Bottom. + |
| Text credit | KW + |
| Water max temp | 298 K (25 °C, 77 °F) + |
| Water min temp | 294 K (21 °C, 70 °F) + |
| Water type | Freshwater + |