Teufelswels – Bagarius bagarius

The Devil Catfish (Bagarius bagarius), also known as the River or Dwarf Goonch, is a fascinating, powerful catfish from the rivers of South and Southeast Asia. With its flat, muscular body, wide mouth, and distinctive head shape, it is one of the most extraordinary freshwater fish ever. Despite its fearsome name, it is a calm but very predatory solitary creature that should only be kept in large aquariums or display tanks.

In nature, Bagarius bagarius inhabits fast-flowing rivers with clear, oxygen-rich water. There, it usually stays near the bottom, where it lies in wait for prey. Its powerful body shape and behavior make it a true rarity among large catfish – ideal for experienced aquarists with adequate space.

🌿 Characteristics & Care:
🐟 Fish size: M (approx. 12–15 cm, juvenile)
🌍 Origin: South Asia (India, Nepal, Bangladesh) – Wild caught
🌡️ Temperature: 22–28 °C
💧 pH value: 6.5–7.8
⚖️ Total hardness: up to 20 °dGH
🐠 Social behavior: Territorial, predatory, to be kept individually
🏞️ Aquarium: from 1000 l with strong current, rock structures & oxygen supply

🍽️ Feeding:
The Devil Catfish is a pure carnivore. It readily accepts frozen and live food such as fish pieces, shrimp, or mussel meat. Juveniles can be fed with Mysis, Krill, and larger Artemia. Special attention should be paid to a high-quality, protein-rich diet.

💡 Tip:
Bagarius bagarius requires cool, strongly flowing, and oxygen-rich water. Robust filtration is mandatory. It should only be kept with similarly large, robust species or individually. An absolute eye-catcher for display aquariums or experienced large catfish enthusiasts.

👉 Conclusion:
The Devil Catfish (Bagarius bagarius) is a rare, imposing large catfish with an extraordinary appearance – ideal for lovers of large, current-loving predatory catfish.