Pseudobagrus pratti

Family: Bagridae

Pseudobagrus pratti — a Bagridae from China, calm and unobtrusive by day, busy by night. Reaches 24.6–36.1 cm; pairs for the small species; solitaries for the big. 18–26 °C.

Care parameters

Water temperature
18–26 °C
pH
6.5–7.5
GH hardness
5–15 dGH
Adult length
24.6–36.1 cm
Minimum tank
500 L
Water layer
Bottom-dwelling
Difficulty
Moderate
Temperament
Calm and unobtrusive by day, busy by night
Origin
China

Species overview

Pseudobagrus pratti is a Bagridae from China. Its barbels read the sand like fingers; coarse gravel slowly wears them down. It lives on the bottom. Adults reach 24.6–36.1 cm. Pairs for the small species; solitaries for the big. Provide soft substrate, hiding tubes, and food that reaches the bottom before tankmates finish it. Maintain 18–26 °C at pH 6.5–7.5. Undemanding once its core needs are met.

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
Pairs for the small species; solitaries for the big
Diet
Eats anything that sinks; balance protein and greens
Recommended tankmates
  • Other similar-sized bottom fish — Share the floor peaceably
Avoid keeping with
  • Tiny fish that fit in its mouth — Vanish at night

Breeding & notes

Sexual dimorphism
Females plumper
Breeding method
Cave or pit spawner; guarding varies by species