Twig catfishes and whiptails (Sturisomatichthys) (Sturisomatichthys spp.) care guide

Group
Freshwater fish
Other names
Twig catfishes, Whiptail catfishes, Giant whiptail (S. aureus), Royal twig catfish (S. panamensis), Sturisoma (older name)
Family
Loricariidae (suckermouth armoured catfishes)
Origin
South and Central America, mainly west and north of the Andes: Colombia (Magdalena basin), Panama and Ecuador; a few species east of the Andes.
Water
freshwater
Maximum size
25 cm
Temperature
22–28°C
pH
6.5–7.5
Hardness
Soft to medium
Minimum tank
250 litres
Care level
intermediate
Temperament
peaceful

Care

Genus overview. Sturisomatichthys are long, slender twig or whiptail catfishes with an elongated snout and long caudal-fin filaments. PlanetCatfish lists 16 species, ranging from about 15 to 25 cm SL (most commonly around 18 cm). Figures in this entry vary by species, so check the species before buying. Species seen in the trade include S. aureus (giant whiptail), S. panamensis (royal twig catfish), S. festivus, S. citurensis, S. reinae and others. Fish sold as S. panamensis are often actually S. aureus, and mixed shipments have produced hybrids in captive stock. Many of these species were formerly placed in Sturisoma; Sturisomatichthys differs in its less orderly belly plates, dark spots on the fins and fewer lateral plates (15-18 rather than 20-21). The 250-litre minimum is our estimate for a pair of the larger species. Tank: a long tank with smooth sand, driftwood and plants, with good flow and high oxygen levels. Some species (e.g. S. panamensis) come from fast rivers. S. aureus prefers cooler water and can struggle above 26 °C, while S. panamensis likes 26-29 °C, so match temperature to the species. Sexing: mature males have conspicuous bristles (odontodes) along the sides of the head and snout. Status: S. panamensis is IUCN Least Concern (2019); S. aureus is Data Deficient (2014). Sources: PlanetCatfish (planetcatfish.com/common/genus.php?genusid=48; speciesid=1167; speciesid=289). Checked October 2026.

Diet

Mostly plant-based: algae wafers, spinach, courgette, cucumber and other vegetables, plus algae growing in the tank. Give meaty foods such as bloodworm or brine shrimp about once a week. They feed slowly, so make sure food reaches them before faster tankmates.

Breeding

S. aureus is bred regularly in the hobby. Like other twig catfishes, they lay eggs on an open, vertical surface such as the tank glass or a pipe in a strong current, and the male guards and cleans the clutch until hatching. Raise the fry on fine algae-based foods and frequent water changes.

Compatibility and tank mates

Peaceful community fish for calm tanks with tetras, small to medium peaceful cichlids and Corydoras. Avoid robust, pushy plecos and other boisterous bottom feeders, as twig cats compete poorly for food.

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

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