the essentials in brief
Honeycomb shield catfish can usually reach a maximum size of about 15 to 20 centimeters. However, the exact size can be influenced by various factors. Find out here which factors these are.
For a single adult honeycomb catfish, which can reach a size of around 20cm, an aquarium with a capacity of at least 100 liters is often recommended. Learn more here.
In order for a honeycomb catfish to be able to live happily and healthily in an aquarium, various factors must be taken into account, such as a suitable aquarium. Here are some other important things.
One of the fascinating creatures of the underwater world, with its unique appearance and interesting behavior is enthusiastic about the honeycomb catfish (Hemiancistrus subviridis). With its distinctive pattern and its special way of life this catfish attracts the attention of aquarium enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
habitat and appearance
The honeycomb sign catfish, often also called "Honeycomb Catfish" known, comes from the waters of South America, more precisely from the rivers and streams of the Orinoco basin in Venezuela and Colombia.
With his unmistakable appearance it is an eye-catcher in every aquarium. The name "Wabenschildwels" is derived from the distinctive pattern on its body, which is reminiscent of the pattern of a honeycomb. The coloring varies from light brown to dark grey, which makes the pattern particularly effective.
characteristics and behavior
The honeycomb sign catfish belongs to Loricariidae family. Its body is elongated and slightly flattened, giving it an elegant appearance. Its large, downward-pointing mouth parts, with which it searches the ground for food, are striking.
Another interesting feature is its powerful fin rays and the prickly thorns on its pectoral and dorsal fins.
In terms of behavior, the honeycomb catfish is more of a calm and peaceful resident of the aquarium. It comes out at dusk to look for food. Due to its calm nature, it is easy to socialize with other peaceful fish species.
Note: It is predominantly nocturnal and likes to spend the day hiding between roots, rocks or other hiding places.
Care in the aquarium
The care of the honeycomb catfish requires some specific conditions to ensure its well-being. An aquarium with sufficient hiding places in the form of roots, stones and caves is essential. These serve not only as places of retreat, but also as places where the honeycomb catfish can lay their eggs.
Water quality should also be considered. The honeycomb shield catfish preferred soft and slightly acidic water. The temperature should be in the range of 24°C to 28°C.
A balanced diet is important as these fish omnivore are. In addition to commercially available fish food, vegetables and protein-rich foods such as Artemia and worms can also be offered.
Recommended amount of water
The amount of water required for a honeycomb shield catfish depends on several factors, including its size, the number of fish in the aquarium, and general water conditions. However, there are some general guidelines, which can help you determine the appropriate amount of water.
For a single adult honeycomb catfish, which can reach a size of about 20 cm, an aquarium with one Capacity of at least 100 liters recommended. This provides enough space for the fish, allows for adequate swimming space, and provides enough space for hiding places and structures in the aquarium.
If you want to keep several honeycomb catfish or intend to socialize them with other fish species, you should total population and consider the possible territorial nature of these fish.
In such a case, a larger aquarium with a Capacity of 200 liters or more be appropriate to ensure harmonious coexistence.
Attention: Remember that the quality of the water is just as important as the quantity. A good filtration system, regular water changes, and monitoring of water parameters (temperature, pH, hardness, etc.) are crucial to ensure the health and well-being of your honeycomb catfish.
Size of a honeycomb sign catfish
Honeycomb catfish can usually do one maximum size of about 15 to 20 centimeters to reach. However, the exact size can be affected by a number of factors including environmental conditions, diet, aquarium volume and the overall health of the fish.
The size of a honeycomb sign catfish can also depend on its gender, genetic makeup, and the conditions of care. In well-maintained aquariums with adequate space and optimal water conditions, they tend to have a greater chance of reaching their full potential potential size to achieve.
Tip: If you are planning on keeping honeycomb catfish in your aquarium it is advisable to research the specific requirements of this fish species and ensure you are providing adequate space, hiding places and the right diet for them.
What makes a honeycomb sign catfish happy
So that a honeycomb catfish can live healthy and happy in an aquarium, are various factors to consider. Here are some of the most important things a honeycomb sign catfish will need:
- Species-appropriate aquarium: A sufficiently large aquarium is necessary to give the honeycomb catfish enough space to swim and explore. An aquarium with a capacity of at least 100 liters is often recommended for a single adult honeycomb catfish.
- hiding places: Honeycomb catfish are natural hiding lovers. Provide hiding places in the aquarium such as caves, roots, rocks and other structures that allow them to retreat and feel safe.
- water quality: The water quality is crucial for the health of the fish. Honeycomb catfish prefer soft and slightly acidic water. The temperature should be in the range of 24°C to 28°C. An effective filtration system and regular water changes are important to maintain good water quality.
- Nutrition: Honeycomb catfish are omnivores. They feed on a wide variety of foods, including commercial fish food, vegetables, frozen or live insects, and worms. A varied diet contributes to the health and vitality of the fish.
- Society: Honeycomb catfish are generally peaceful fish that can be socialized well with other peaceful species. However, they should not be kept with aggressive or undersized fish species that could harm them.
- Aquarium design: The setup of the aquarium should be natural and imitate the natural habitat of the honeycomb catfish. Plants, roots and stones can not only serve as hiding places, but also help to create an attractive living space.
- Social structure: Honeycomb catfish are territorial, especially during the breeding season. If you want to keep several honeycomb catfish, make sure you have enough space and hiding places to minimize possible territorial fights.
By considering these factors and paying attention to the needs of your honeycomb shield catfish, you can ensure they get a healthy and fulfilling environment have in which they can feel comfortable.
Note: Keep a regular lookout for changes in the behavior or appearance of your honeycomb shield catfish. If you notice signs of illness or stress, it is important to respond appropriately and seek veterinary help if necessary.
The fascinating honeycomb sign catfish
The honeycomb catfish is without a doubt a fascinating creature that aquarium lovers will love with its unique appearance and excited about his interesting behavior. With the right care and habitat, this catfish can make a wonderful resident of a freshwater aquarium.
Observing his nocturnal activities and his Interactions with other fish species gives every aquarium a special touch. If you are interested in aquaristics, you should definitely consider the honeycomb catfish in order to experience the fascinating world under the water surface even more intensively.