Rafael catfish

[Dallionz]

My LFS has a rafael catfish that is probably about an inch to an inch and a half long. I've read that they don't get real big - about 6". Would this be a good addition to my 55 gallon tank? How fast do they grow? I figure the answer is probably no, but I wanted to ask some of you who have had experience with them as they are so neat looking. Also, if it would be okay in my tank, can I feed it regular fish food and sinking pellets or would it need something special.

Thanks in advance.

 

[CFC]

In time the raphael would eat your tetras and possibly the danios, while they are not hard core predators like most catfish they rarely turn down the oppertunity for a good meal. Theyre not the fastest growing fish but should be full grown within 2 to 3 years depending on feeding and water quallity. They should also be kept in groups as they are social creatures.
One warning i should give you is that raphaels like all Doradids are totally nocturnal and in a well furnished tank will rarely be seen, if at all.

 

[Dallionz]

Thanks for your response. That is what I was wondering. My tank is very calm and I don't want to add anything that could endanger any of the other fish. I'll just hang on and wait till I find just the right fish to add. I don't mind that the fish would be nocturnal , but I definitely don't want it eating any of my other fish. LOL! Thanks again!

 

[Paul_MTS]

They are great fish though, I have some young ones the size you say and there quite active as it goes, especially once i turn 1 of the lights off at feeding time. I'll try and get a video off my phone of them feeding when i put blood worm in!!

on the other hand I have a larger spotted one which I don't see too often, i will see it maybe once a week when it comes out before both lights are out.

 

[Candyco]

i got 2 striped 1's a few weeks back.... i've heard they can get up to 8 1/2 inces long max... mine r now @ about 2-3, u should b ok.... they're great fun when theyre out and seem 2 watch u.. they blink too.... sweeeeeeeeeet!

 

[Monte20]

they also let out this weird barking noise when they are taken out of the water. I got my first striped rafael today. it was so weird sounding.

 

[Miss Dib Dabs]

Awww I've still yet to find another for my lone youngster. He got beaten up by my peach spot plec a few days ago for getting too close by accident. Really need to find him a buddy to grow with.
Hugs,
P.