Catla (Gibelion catla)

Family: Cyprinidae

Catla — a Cyprinidae from China and Cambodia. Reaches 136.5–200.2 cm; keep at 18–28 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–28 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
136.5–200.2 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Active throughout the water column
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins
Origin
China and Cambodia

Species overview

A Cyprinidae species native to China and Cambodia: Gibelion catla lives active throughout the water column over gravel. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins. Adults reach 136.5–200.2 cm. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.

Native biotope

Habitat
Clear streams and rivers over gravel
Flow
Moderate, well-oxygenated current
Dissolved O₂
Appreciates well-oxygenated water

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Fine gravel and sand
Hardscape
Water-worn stones and driftwood
Plants
Hardy rooted plants along the margins

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Shoaling; keep in groups of 6 or more
Diet
Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter
Recommended tankmates
  • Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs
Avoid keeping with
  • Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Males often slimmer and more colourful
Breeding method
Egg-scatterer; no parental care

Frequently asked questions

Is Catla easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: mostly peaceful; some species nip fins; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Catla need?

Aim for 18–28 °C. Room temperature to heated, depending on origin; 18–28 °C recorded range.

How big does Catla get, and what tank size?

Adults reach 136.5–200.2 cm; it is active throughout the water column. Plan for at least 500 litres.

What does Catla eat?

Omnivore; prepared foods with regular vegetable matter. It forages naturally over fine gravel and sand, so let some food reach the bottom.

Can Catla live with other fish?

Yes, with care. Mostly peaceful; some species nip fins — pair it with Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs and skip Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Catla come from?

Comes from China and Cambodia: clear streams and rivers over gravel. Expect moderate, well-oxygenated current and appreciates well-oxygenated water.

Does Catla jump?

Not a noted jumper — a standard cover still keeps dust and spray in.

How does Catla breed?

In the aquarium: egg-scatterer; no parental care. Males often slimmer and more colourful.