Banjo Catfish

Description

The Banjo Catfish (Bunocephalus coracoideus) is a unique and fascinating freshwater species native to the slow-moving rivers, streams, and floodplains of South America, particularly in the Amazon Basin. Named for its flat, elongated body that resembles the shape of a banjo, this catfish is well-camouflaged with mottled brown coloring, allowing it to blend seamlessly with leaf litter and sandy substrates in its natural habitat.In the wild, Banjo Catfish are nocturnal bottom-dwellers, spending much of their time buried in soft substrates or hiding among debris. They are opportunistic feeders, consuming small invertebrates, insect larvae, detritus, and organic matter.In aquariums, the Banjo Catfish thrives in a well-decorated tank with a soft, sandy substrate to support its natural burrowing behavior. Providing hiding spots such as leaf litter, driftwood, and rocks helps replicate its natural environment and makes the fish feel secure. While shy and reclusive during the day, they become more active at night. Banjo Catfish are peaceful and do well with other non-aggressive tankmates such as tetras, Corydoras, and small peaceful cichlids.Growing to about 12-15 cm (5-6 inches), the Banjo Catfish is a hardy and low-maintenance species suitable for medium-sized aquariums. Its unusual appearance, intriguing behavior, and peaceful nature make it a captivating addition to community tanks, especially for aquarists who appreciate unique and cryptic bottom-dwelling fish.