Somik Kosatka-skrypun

Catfish The squeaky killer whale, scientific name Tachysurus fulvidraco, belongs to the family Bagridae (Orcas). It got its name because of the sounds made when the fish is taken out of the water, as well as the outward resemblance to the killer whale due to the presence of a pointed dorsal fin.

It occurs naturally in East and Southeast Asia in China, Laos, and Vietnam. Wild populations also inhabit the Amur River basin in southeastern Siberia.

The fish is better known among amateur fishermen than aquarists, being one of the most popular objects of fishing on the banks of the Amur.

Description

Adult individuals reach a length of up to 34 cm. As noted above, the catfish vaguely resembles a predatory marine mammal – a killer whale. First of all, the similarity is provided by a high dorsal fin.

The fins (dorsal and pectoral) of the fish are equipped with sharp serrated spines, into which the first rays have changed. The rest were soft.

The coloration is dark with an olive greenish or yellow tint on the sides. The color varies to a darker or lighter side depending on the region of habitat.

Behavior and Compatibility

With a lack of space, they will feud with other bottom species for the territory. Otherwise, the catfish does not differ in any aggression. However, given the characteristics of the diet, any small fish will inevitably be considered as a potential food.

Only large fish capable of living in cool water should be considered as compatible species. While similar conditions apply to Goldfish, keeping them with Squeaker Whales is not recommended.

Brief information:

• The volume of the aquarium – from 500 liters.
• Temperature – 16-27°C
• Value pH — 6.0–7.5
• Water hardness – 5–19 dGH
• Substrate type – sandy
• Lighting – subdued
• Brackish water – no
• Water movement – little or no
• The size of the fish is up to 34 cm.
• Food – any sinking food
• Temperament – conditionally peaceful
• Content – alone or in a group

Maintenance and care, arrangement of the aquarium

The optimal size of the aquarium for one or two catfish starts from 500 liters. In the design, shelters made of snags, heaps of stones and other natural or artificial decor are obligatory. The soil is soft sandy.

Leads a nocturnal lifestyle, so the level of lighting does not matter. During the daytime it will be hidden.

Features of the content are largely determined by the area from which the catfish comes from – Asia or Siberia. The further south, the higher the water temperature. For example, for Amur catfish, the range of 16–25 ° C is considered comfortable, for Asian catfish – 23–27 ° C. In both cases, the fish needs clean water and does not respond well to the accumulation of organic waste.

Food

Omnivorous species. The basis of the diet are small invertebrates, fry, small fish. Can be accustomed to dry sinking food. Feed shortly before the lights go out.