Lotic Catfish — a Amblycipitidae from China, peaceful; most activity happens after dark. Reaches 9.6–14.1 cm; keep bottom stock light — they share one floor. 20–26 °C.
Care parameters
Water temperature
20–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
9.6–14.1 cm
Minimum tank
239 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Peaceful; most activity happens after dark
Origin
China
Species overview
Liobagrus marginatus is a Amblycipitidae from China. Its barbels read the sand like fingers; coarse gravel slowly wears them down. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 9.6–14.1 cm. Keep bottom stock light — they share one floor. Provide soft substrate, hiding tubes, and food that reaches the bottom before tankmates finish it. Maintain 20–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. A solid choice for a well-planned community tank.
Native biotope
Habitat
Warm freshwater streams and lakes
Flow
Still to gentle current
Dissolved O₂
Moderate oxygen levels
Aquascape & hardware
Substrate
Fine sand and gravel
Hardscape
Driftwood and smooth stones
Plants
Hardy common aquarium plants
Temperament, diet & tankmates
Schooling
Keep bottom stock light — they share one floor
Diet
Omnivorous scavenger — sinking pellets, frozen and vegetable foods
Recommended tankmates
Other similar-sized bottom fish — Share the floor peaceably