Midnight catfish (Auchenipterichthys coracoideus) care guide

Group
Freshwater fish
Other names
Zamora woodcat, Auchenipterichthys thoracatus (trade misidentification), Trachycorystes coracoideus
Family
Auchenipteridae (driftwood catfishes)
Origin
Upper Amazon basin in Peru (described from Iquitos); also recorded from coastal rivers of Guyana including the Essequibo.
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
11 cm
Temperature
23–25°C
pH
6–7.2
Hardness
Soft to medium
Minimum tank
150 litres
Care level
beginner
Temperament
peaceful

Care

The midnight catfish, better known to catfish keepers as the Zamora woodcat, is an inky blue-black fish speckled with white spots when settled. PlanetCatfish calls it peaceful and surprisingly robust. PlanetCatfish gives a maximum of 11 cm SL (FishBase records up to 19 cm). A tank of about 150 litres suits a small group (our estimate; the sources give no size). By day it loves to wedge itself into tight gaps, especially in wood. PlanetCatfish suggests bogwood with drilled holes; check inside before removing wood from the tank. Keeping it with a shoal of small, calm fish makes it bolder and more visible. Aim for 23–25 °C and pH 6–7.2 (PlanetCatfish), in soft to medium water. Mature males have a modified anal fin like the gonopodium of a guppy or platy, used for internal fertilisation. Name note: for many years this fish was sold as Auchenipterichthys thoracatus; a 2005 study showed that the common aquarium species is actually A. coracoideus. It is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN (2020). Sources: PlanetCatfish (planetcatfish.com/common/species.php?speciesid=352); FishBase (fishbase.se/summary/Auchenipterichthys-coracoideus.html). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Naturally an insectivore of small invertebrates and crustaceans. PlanetCatfish says it likes bloodworm best but also takes flake and sinking pellets, feeding in midwater and on the bottom. Feed some food around lights out, when it is most active.

Breeding

Fertilisation is internal, and the female can lay eggs away from the male. PlanetCatfish notes that German hobbyists have bred it, but there is little written up in English. Sexing is easy in adults: males have the modified anal fin.

Compatibility and tank mates

Suits most community tanks of medium-sized fish, but it is an effective night-time hunter, so do not trust it with very small fish or fry. PlanetCatfish suggests small characins and Corydoras as companions (choose ones too big to swallow). Avoid aggressive fish that would deny it a hiding place.

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

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