HUMBUG CATFISH

● Scientific name: Platydoras armatulus

● Pronunciation: Plat-ee-dorr-ass arr-ma-too-luss

● Size: Usually to 15cm in aquaria, recorded at almost 25cm wild

● 6Origin: Quite widespread across South America, including Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Bolivia, Guyana, Brazil and French Guiana

● Habitat: Slow and static waters, always associated with fallen wood in which it hides

● Tank size: 120x30x30cm

● Water requirements: Soft and acidic to slightly alkaline water; 5.5-7.5pH, 2-18°H

● Temperature: 24-29°C

● Temperament: An otherwise peaceful community species that may snack on very small fish

● Feeding: Thrives on meaty foods like bloodworm, earthworm, Daphnia, chopped mussel, as well as sinking pellets and tablets

● Availability and cost: Relatively easy to find but not always easy to spot, prices from around £9.50