The Banjo Catfish (Bunocephalus coracoideus) is a fascinating and unusual freshwater catfish known for its flattened body shape and incredible camouflage that resembles a dried leaf. Its unique appearance and secretive behavior make it a favorite among aquarists who enjoy rare and interesting species.

Native to South America, Banjo Catfish inhabit slow-moving rivers, streams, and leaf-littered environments where they blend perfectly with the natural substrate. In the aquarium, they often remain motionless on the bottom during the day and become more active at night.

Because of their calm temperament, Banjo Catfish can be kept in peaceful community aquariums with similarly sized fish.

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Why Aquarists Love Banjo Catfish

• Unique leaf-like camouflage appearance
• Peaceful and unusual bottom-dwelling catfish
• Interesting nocturnal behavior
• Great addition to natural or biotope aquariums

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Behavior & Compatibility

Banjo Catfish are peaceful and solitary bottom dwellers.

Suitable tank mates include:

• Tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras catfish
• Small peaceful cichlids
• Other calm community fish

Avoid aggressive fish or species that may disturb them.

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Ideal Aquarium Setup

Banjo Catfish prefer aquariums that resemble their natural habitat.

Recommended aquarium features include:

• Fine sand substrate
• Leaf litter and driftwood
• Dim or subdued lighting
• Gentle water flow

These fish often bury themselves partially in sand or hide among leaves.

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Diet and Feeding

Banjo Catfish are carnivorous bottom feeders and prefer meaty foods.

Recommended foods include:

• Frozen bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Blackworms
• Sinking carnivore pellets

They usually feed more actively during the evening or at night.

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Recommended Tank Parameters

Temperature: 72 – 80°F (22 – 27°C)
pH: 6.0 – 7.5
KH: 2 – 10 dKH
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons

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Size Information

Average Adult Size:
4 – 5 inches (10 – 13 cm)

Typical Sale Size:
2 – 3 inches (5 – 7.5 cm)

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Origin

The Banjo Catfish (Bunocephalus coracoideus) originates from South America, where it inhabits slow-moving freshwater rivers and tributaries throughout the Amazon basin.

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Ready to add a unique and mysterious species to your aquarium? The Banjo Catfish is a fascinating bottom-dwelling fish known for its incredible camouflage and calm behavior. At Betta USA, we take pride in offering serious aquarists the highest quality freshwater livestock. Whether you are looking to purchase this incredible catfish or browse our premium selection of Live Tropical Fish, every specimen in our state-of-the-art facility is carefully selected for exceptional health, coloration, and vitality. Shop with confidence today and build your ultimate thriving underwater haven with Betta USA!