Four Line Pimelodella Cat
Iridescent and active, the Four Line Pimelodella Catfish is a long-time aquarium favorite. First described by Valenciennes in 1840, this Brazilian catfish is Pimelodella blochii . Found in coffee colored waters, the catfish hides during the day and comes out as a predator at night. Its long barbells sweep through the dark “tasting” for potential food. In the home aquarium, the Four Line Pimelodella (common name) will require hiding places and should be housed with tankmates too large to swallow. The body is shiny silver with black spotting/lines running horizontally from the gill plate to the tail. Spines on the dorsal and pectoral fins can cause puncture wounds and will get caught in most nets. Growing to about 8” in length, the Four Line can be very active once the lights are out, and in the presence of food. As a smooth skin catfish, care must be taken when treating the aquarium for parasite infestations. Sexual differences are not known and spawning is not reported in the home aquarium.
