Family: Pimelodidae
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus — a Pimelodidae from South America. Reaches 135–198 cm; keep at 24–30 °C.
Phractocephalus hemioliopterus is a Pimelodidae from South America. In the wild it prefers large rivers and floodplains over sand; in the aquarium it stays predatory toward fish close to its mouth size. Plan on 135–198 cm of adult fish at 24–30 °C. In a community tank it pairs well with Similar-sized peaceful community fish.
Intermediate difficulty. Predatory toward fish close to its mouth size; singles or small groups in very large tanks.
Aim for 24–30 °C. Heater for stable warmth; 24–30 °C curated husbandry range.
Full size is 135–198 cm. Minimum tank: 500 L, with open swimming space along its middle of the water column habits.
Carnivore; meaty sinking foods. It forages naturally over fine sand, so let some food reach the bottom.
Predatory toward fish close to its mouth size; singles or small groups in very large tanks. Good company: Similar-sized peaceful community fish — Similar size and water needs. Keep away from Much smaller fish — May outcompete or bully tiny tankmates.
Comes from South America: large rivers and floodplains over sand. Expect moderate current and high oxygen appreciated.
In the aquarium: not bred in home aquaria. Hard to distinguish.