Order Siluriformes Higher classification Megalodoras | Phylum Chordata Scientific name Megalodoras uranoscopus Rank Species | |
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Similar Megalodoras, Doradidae, Oxydoras niger, Oxydoras, Hassar | ||
Giant talking catfish megalodoras uranoscopus
The giant talking catfish or giant raphael catfish (Megalodoras uranoscopus) is a species of thorny catfish that is native to the Amazon Basin in Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador and Peru. This species grows to a length of 60 centimetres (24 in) SL (for a female specimen) and a maximum weight of 4.6 kilograms (10 lb). These fish are a component of local commercial fisheries.
Contents
Megalodoras uranoscopus 70 cm
Ecology
M. uranoscopus occurs in small groups and occasionally forms schools. This species inhabits rivers. M. uranoscopus is mainly diurnal. These fish feed on the fruits of Licania longipetala and Astrocaryum jauari and also feeds on pulmonate snails.
Aquarium
Not commonly imported but is appealing for its attractive colour pattern which remains with age. Diet include catfish pellets, catfish tablets, prawns and frozen bloodworms. They are a large species and require a large aquarium, but otherwise are peaceful and hardy and compatible with most medium to large fish. A group of three or more is ideal. The lighting should not be too bright. Hiding places should be provided for these fish.
