Marble Achara Catfish
First described by Gill in 1870, the Marble Achara Catfish is properly called Leiarius marmoratus, a member of the South American Pimelodidae family. Growing to an impressive 24 inches in length, it will require a large aquarium with open swimming areas, but also caves for hiding. It is not unusual for the catfish to rest on the bottom and only be active when food is introduced to the aquarium. At that time, it becomes a voracious eater, capable of swallowing smaller fish, though it will accept meaty frozen foods. Water conditions are critical, as the Achara Cat cannot tolerate high nitrate levels. If treating for parasite infestations, you should treat as a smooth skin fish with a lower dose. The body has large dark brown patterns with a light brown reticulated pattern to result in the “marble” look. The tail fin is deeply forked and the “whiskers” are very long, nearly equal to the total body length. These are used in the natural waters to find food, since the water is colored like coffee with cream and visibility is next to zero. The Marble Achara Cat can be kept with most other larger fish and is often associated with South American Cichlids. It is sometimes mistaken for its close cousin which has a similar appearance but has more dorsal rays and a narrower head.
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