Banjo Catfish

Bunocephalus spp.

Minimum Tank Size

20–30 gal

Temperature

72–79°F

PH

6.0–7.5

Adult Size

4–6 in

Temperament 

Peaceful, sedentary nocturnal fish

Care Difficulty

Intermediate

Diet & Feeding

Provide a varied species-appropriate diet using a quality staple plus supplemental foods that match natural feeding behavior. Avoid overfeeding.

Care Instructions

Keep conditions stable around 72–79°F with suitable chemistry. Account for adult size, behavior, bioload, and escape risk where relevant.

Flow & Filtration

Use mature biological filtration and appropriate oxygenation/flow. Keep ammonia and nitrite at zero and manage nitrate through routine water changes.

Planted Tank Suitability

Plant compatibility varies with digging, grazing, size, and water chemistry. Use hardy or protected plants when necessary.

Tank Mate Compatibility

Good Tank Mates
  • Tetras
  • Rasboras
  • Corydoras

Use Caution 
  • Other Bottom Feeders

Avoid
  • Aggressive Cichlids

Compatibility Notes

Needs soft substrate and targeted nighttime feeding because it often buries itself and moves little by day.

Breeding Notes

Breeding strategy varies by species; provide appropriate spawning sites and separate fry or young when necessary.