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African Giraffe Catfish (Auchenoglanis occidentalis occidentalis)
Scientific Name(s): Auchenoglanis occidentalis occidentalis
Common Name(s): African Giraffe Catfish, Giraffe Catfish, African Giraffe Bagrid
Family: Claroteidae
Species Type: African Catfish
Maximum Size: 36 inches
Life Span: 18 years
Natural Habitat: Many rivers, lakes and streams throughout Africa.
Minimum Tank Size: 150 gallons
Tank Region: In the wild this is a bottom dwelling species. Due to the size and nature of this species, it should be considered to live in all regions of the aquarium.
Possible Tank Mates: Really this should be kept in a species only tank due to it’s large size. It can be compatible with many other types of fish as long as they are larger than 6 or 8 inches.
Description: This is a very large, very demanding species of fish. It should only be kept by dedicated, experienced aquarists and only after careful consideration is taken. This fish can grow up to three feet long and can eat vast quantities of food.
The Arfican Giraffe Catfish catfish gets it’s name from the giraffe-like pattern of spots.
Temperature Range 70°F – 80°F
pH Range 6.5 – 7.5
Hardness 10° – 25°
Breeding Information: There is no record of breeding in home aquaria. Breeding is possible in theory with large heated pools with a half dozen individuals to spur breeding competition.
Sexing Information: No known way to sex this species.
Diet: Omnivorous – the African Giraffe Catfish will literally eat just about any type of food that it encounters. That being said, you should provide it with a well balanced diet consisting of a pellet staple and supplimented with live protein rich foods such as worms. Be forewarned – this species need A LOT of food.
Temperment: Generally peaceful, but will eat any species small enough to fit into it’s mouth. This fish is also a scavenger so it is a particular danger to eggs or small fry.
Common Diseases: None specific to species, but the diet requirements of this species should be noted.
