Banjo Catfish

Banjo Catfish (Bunocephalus coracoeuids)

A unique and fascinating bottom-dwelling catfish from the Amazon basin, with its type locality near Nauta, Peru. Instantly recognizable by its flattened, banjo-shaped body and distinctive bumpy head (reflected in its scientific name from the Greek bounos for “hill” and kephale for “head”), this peaceful species is a favorite for planted aquariums and community tanks where its subtle camouflage and scavenging habits shine.

Key Features

• Maximum Size: 11 cm / ~4.3 inches SL.
• Appearance: Strongly flattened body with a broad, bony head covered in small bumps or tubercles. Coloration is typically mottled browns and tans for excellent camouflage against the substrate. Males and females are similar, though breeding males may show slightly more intense patterning.
• Fin Details: Typical for the genus, with a large, sail-like dorsal fin and broad pectoral fins used for “walking” along the bottom.

Aquarium Care

• Tank Size: Minimum 20–30 gallons for a small group or community setup.
• Water Parameters: Tropical freshwater; 68–80°F (20–27°C), pH 5.8–7.8, soft to moderately hard (2–20°dGH). Excellent water quality and a soft, sandy or fine-gravel substrate are essential.
• Diet: Omnivorous bottom feeder — readily accepts sinking pellets, frozen bloodworms, brine shrimp, and occasional vegetable matter.
• Behavior: Peaceful, shy, and largely nocturnal. An excellent scavenger that helps keep the substrate clean. Best kept with other peaceful species and plenty of hiding spots (driftwood, caves, leaf litter). Breeding is possible in the aquarium with the right conditions.

IUCN Status Least Concern (LC)