Hemibagrus macropterus — a Bagridae from southern China, peaceful giant of the bottom, indifferent to mid-water life. Reaches 54.8–80.4 cm; singly or in small groups depending on species size. 16–25 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
16–25 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
54.8–80.4 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful giant of the bottom, indifferent to mid-water life
Origin
southern China
Species overview
Bagridae species Hemibagrus macropterus comes from southern China. A whiskered bottom resident whose day begins when the lights go off. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 54.8–80.4 cm. Singly or in small groups depending on species size. Feed sinking foods after lights-out, keep the sand soft, and never let nitrate climb unnoticed. Maintain 16–25 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A solid choice for a well-planned community tank.
Native biotope
Habitat
Large rivers over sand and mud
Flow
Moderate current
Dissolved O₂
High oxygen appreciated
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand
Hardscape
Large caves and driftwood
Plants
Not essential
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Singly or in small groups depending on species size
Diet
Opportunistic bottom-feeder with a broad palate
Recommended tankmates
Mid-water schooling fish — Use the space catfish ignore
Avoid keeping with
Fast surface feeders — Leave nothing for the bottom
Breeding & notes
Sexual dimorphism
Females plumper
Breeding method
Egg-depositing in hollows; some guard, some abandon