Three-lined Catfish (Glyptothorax trilineatus)

Family: Sisoridae

Three-lined Catfish — a Sisoridae freshwater fish. Reaches 22.5–33 cm; keep at 10–20 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
10–20 °C
pH
6–7.2
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
22.5–33 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; territorial over perches

Species overview

Glyptothorax trilineatus is a Sisoridae. In the aquarium it stays peaceful. Plan on 22.5–33 cm of adult fish at 10–20 °C. Related profiles: Glyptothorax sinensis, Glyptothorax fokiensis, Glyptothorax hainanensis.

Native biotope

Habitat
Mountain torrents clinging to boulders
Flow
Very strong current, highly oxygenated
Dissolved O₂
Requires very high dissolved oxygen

Aquascape & hardware

Substrate
Bare smooth rock
Hardscape
Large boulders forming crevices
Plants
Minimal

Temperament, diet & tankmates

Schooling
Small groups with enough perches
Diet
Herbivorous-leaning omnivore
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
Unclear
Breeding method
Unknown in aquaria

Frequently asked questions

Is Three-lined Catfish easy to keep?

A moderate-level species: peaceful; territorial over perches; stable water matters more than fancy equipment.

What temperature and water chemistry does Three-lined Catfish need?

Hold 10–20 °C and keep it stable — 10–20 °C recorded range. Cool and stable.

How big does Three-lined Catfish get, and what tank size?

Expect 22.5–33 cm as an adult, living bottom-dwelling. A 500 L tank or larger gives it room.

What does Three-lined Catfish eat?

Herbivorous-leaning omnivore. Vary the menu — quality flakes or pellets plus frozen or live foods.

Can Three-lined Catfish live with other fish?

Peaceful; territorial over perches. Recommended tankmates: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Avoid Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.

Where does Three-lined Catfish come from?

Found in mountain torrents clinging to boulders; expect very strong current, highly oxygenated and requires very high dissolved oxygen.

How does Three-lined Catfish breed?

In the aquarium: unknown in aquaria. Unclear.