Asian banjo catfish (Acrochordonichthys rugosus) care guide

Group
Freshwater fish
Other names
Asian banjo catfish
Family
Akysidae (stream catfishes)
Origin
Southeast Asia: Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Java and Borneo, in rivers such as the Kapuas, Barito, Musi and Pahang.
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
11 cm
Temperature
18–25°C
pH
5–7
Hardness
3–18 dGH (estimated)
Minimum tank
80 litres
Care level
intermediate
Temperament
peaceful

Care

A cryptic, rough-skinned catfish covered in rows of small tubercles, generally dark brown with irregular light brown patches. It spends the day hidden and is most active after dark. It comes from swift, forested streams, so it needs well-oxygenated water and a strong current. Provide driftwood and rocks to hide among. No source gives a tank size; for a fish of about 11 cm we suggest at least 80 litres (an estimate). Keep it cool to warm, at about 18–25 °C, in soft to neutral water around pH 5–7. Males have a slender genital papilla just in front of the anus; females tend to be larger and fuller-bodied. The genus name means 'warty fish' and rugosus refers to the rough skin. It is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Sources: PlanetCatfish (planetcatfish.com/common/species.php?speciesid=959). Checked October 2026.

Diet

An ambush predator that adapts readily to frozen foods and sinking pellets. Feed in the evening. It may eat small bottom-dwelling fish.

Breeding

There are no reports of it breeding in aquariums.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful with fish too large to swallow, but it will take small bottom-dwelling fish. Keep with mid- and upper-water fish that enjoy flowing water, such as larger rasboras, barbs and loaches.

Last updated 5 October 2026. Community-edited care guide on Aquatic-Auctions.

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